lL, wa a, ee 


fy a at 
inet cy ; 
hy et yy \ 
Bra NPN | 7: an 2 , A imp 
EMOTE STORAGE . A 
Ya Seraert at : 


Dare 


A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS 
QF AMERICA NORTH OF MEXICO 


DISSERTATION 


PRESENTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR 
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN THE GRADUATE 
SCHOOL OF THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY 


BY 
JOHN BERNARD PARKER 


COLUMBUS, OHIO 
1915 


A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS 
OF AMERICA NORTH OF MEXICO 


BY 


JOHN BERNARD PARKER 


Associate Professor of Biology, Catholic University of America 


No. 2173.—From the Proceedings of the United States National Museum, 
Vol. 52, pages 1-155 : 


Published February 10, 1917 


ea 
| 
ger 
oc 
ray 
neal 
Washington 
Government Printing Office 
1917 


APR 1 44g 


REMOTE STORAGE 


A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS OF AMERICA 
NORTH OF MEXICO. 


By Joun BerRnarp PARKER, 
Associate Professor of Biology, Catholic University of America. 


INTRODUCTION. 


This revision is based upon a careful study of the collection of 
Bembicine wasps found in the United States National Museum and 
of collections in possession of the institutions mentioned below. 
The writer has also examined the types found in the collections of the 
American Entomological Society of Philadelphia and of the American 
Museum of Natural History. Although this work was undertaken 
as a taxonomic revision of the tribe for North America north of 
Mexico, it has been thought proper to include a very brief summary 
of what has been done by other investigators on the biology of 
several species of these wasps and also to add the results of the 
writer’s own observations. 

The Bembicini is a tribe of solitary wasps belonging to the group 
Fossores or digger wasps. This tribe and the Stizini compose the 
family Bembicidae. Among these wasps the individuals are either 
male or female, and the latter constructs her nest alone and pro- 
vides for her offspring. These nests are burrows digged in the 
eround, usually in sandy places, and, although each female con- 
structs a burrow for herself, the wasps generally nest in colonies, 
which may be made up of several species. The most prominent 
characters distinguishing the Bembicine wasps are the non-folded 
wings lying flat on the back, the three closed cubital cells of the 
anterior wing, of which cells the second receives both discoidal cross 
veins, the absence of a prepectus, the prominently exserted labrum, 
and the lack of developed ocelli. 

The descriptions, both specific and generic, are based upon a study 
of the specimens at hand. The original descriptions of all previously 
described species have been carefully studied and the identification 
of specimens at hand based thereon. In describing new species the 
type-specimen, whether male or female, is described first, and con- 
sequently the description is that of a single individual. This is 


PROCEEDINGS U. S. NATIONAL MUSEUM, VoL. 52—No. 2173. 
65008°—Proc.N.M.vol.52—17——1 


L-A-LL_ 


2 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


followed by a description of the allotype, if available, and by com- 
ments upon the variations and peculiarities of the species as shown 
by paratypes when the new species is described from a number of 
specimens. In the case of species already described a detailed 
description of each sex is given whenever both sexes were represented 
in the collections, and these descriptions, except where noted, are 
based not upon single individuals but upon the groups of specimens 
at hand. The drawings of the wings are made from projections of 
balsam mounts and are all enlarged on the same scale. The figures 
of all other parts are camera lucida drawings and, save where noted 
in the explanation of the plates, are drawn exactly on the same scale 
of magnification. Consequently these drawings show accurately the 
relative size of similar structures on the various species. All draw- 
ings are the work of the writer save Nos, 213 and 216, which are the 
work of Mr. Noel Deisch. 

The generic name Monedula Latreille (1802) must be dropped, as 
Fox has pointed out,! since it is preoccupied in ornithology by Mone- 
dula Hasselquist (1762). TIlliger was aware of this prior use of the 
term and proposed the name Stictia? to replace it. The species 
included in the genus Monedula, as given in Handlirsch’s mono- 
graph, fall into four groups that possess characters sufficiently dis- 
tinct to warrant, in the writer’s judgment, their separation into 
good genera. To one group the generic name Stictia must be applied 
and this genus is represented by the species carolina Fabricius and 
signata Linnaeus. For the second the name of Stictiella is proposed, 
with the species formosa Cresson as the type. For the third the sub- 
generic name Hemidula Burmeister must be raised to generic rank 
with singularis Taschenberg as the type. For the fourth a generic 
name is yet to be proposed and it can not properly be done here since 
none of the species belonging in this group are found within the 
region covered by this revision. 

The writer desires to acknowledge here his indebtedness to Prof. 
Herbert Osborn, of the Ohio State University, under whose super- 
vision and direction this work has been done; to the authorities of 
the United States National Museum for valuable assistance rendered 
in the course of the work, and for the privilege of laboratory facilities 
and access to its collections and library. The writer further desires 
to express his appreciation of the kindness of the following gentlemen 
in placing at his disposal collections of Bembicine wasps found in the 
institutions with which they are (or were) respectively connected: Dr. 
H. T. Fernald, Massachusetts Agricultural College; Prof. George A. 
Dean, Kansas State Agricultural College; Dr. J. C. Bradley, Cornell 
University; Dr. S. Graenicher, Public Museum of Milwaukee; Dr. 
Henry Skinner, American Entomological Society of Philadelphia; 


1 Ent. News, 1901, p. 269. 2Fauna Etrusca, vol. 2. 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 3 


Mr. Charles Schaeffer, Brooklyn Institute; Mr. F. X. Williams, 
University of Kansas; Dr. F. E. Lutz, American Museum of Natural 
History; and Mr. W. T. Davis, Staten Island, New York. 


ANATOMY. 


Inasmuch as this work is primarily concerned with a taxonomic 
revision of the genera and species included, anatomy need be con- 
sidered only in so far as it has to do with the generic and specific 
characters used in classification. With this consideration in mind 
a brief discussion is given below of the anatomy of the Bembicine 
wasp, such as is deemed sufficient to enable the reader, who is pre- 
sumed to be familar with entomological literature, to understand and 
use intelligently the terms employed in the generic and specific 
descriptions. 

The head is vertical, large, and freely movable upon the pro- 
thorax. The compound eyes are large, arched, more or less oval 
in outline, and naked in all species herein described. Their borders 
are entire, neither incised nor emarginate. The mouth parts con- 
sist of a prominent labrum, a pair of well-developed, pointed man- 
dibles, and a proboscis composed of the highly specialized maxillae 
and labium. The clypeus is prominent and well defined and varies 
somewhat in general outline among the genera. The frons from 
its union with the clypeus, which is marked by an evident suture, 
extends upward between the compound eyes and joins the vertex, 
there being no evident dividing line between the two. The antennae 
are inserted on the frons and are made up of 13 segments in the males 
and of 12 in the females. The first segment is known as the scape; 
the remaining segments form the flagellum. The second segment 
of the antenna, that is, the first segment of the flagellum is fre- 
quently called the pedicel, a term not used in my descriptions. The 
ocelli are not developed in this tribe of hymenoptera and their 
positions are marked by cicatrices. The anterior cicatrix is found 
upon the frons while the posterior pair is placed upon the vertex. 
The occiput is the dorsal part of the head posterior to the eyes and in 
these wasps is ill defined or wanting, the surface of the head posterior 
to the eyes being vertical and flat or concave. The temple is that 
part of the head behind the compound eye visible when the head is 
viewed from the side. 

The prothorax is relatively small; its posterior dorsal border is 
frequently referred to as the collar and there is a rounded posterior 
prolongation on either side near the base of the wings to which the 
term tubercle is applied. The dorsum of the mesothorax is com- 
posed of two sclerites of which the anterior is called in my descrip- 
tions the scutum, which is equivalent to the term dorsulum of other 
writers. The posterior sclerite is the scutellum. The dorsum of 


4 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


the metathorax is the metanotum, more commonly called the post- 
scutellum. The true first segment of the abdomen is solidly fused 
with the thorax and is variously termed the median segment, middle 
segment, or propodeum. In some of the earlier descriptions of 
species the dorsum of this segment is erroneously called the 
metanotum. 

The term abdomen is applied to that part of the body which is 
posterior to the median segment and movably attached thereto. 
Although this is, as a matter of fact, an incorrect use of the term, I 
have adhered to a practice that has been universal, and conse- 
quently the segment that is herein called the first abdominal seg- 


AE a aii 3. 


Ss 


© 


44 


72 


72 e 4 43 It 


WINGS OF STICTIA CAROLINA FABRICIUS.—VEINS: 1, COSTAL; 2, BASAL; 3, DISCOIDAL; 4, SUBCOSTAL; 5, 
MEDIAN; 6, SUBMEDIAN; 7, SUBMEDIAN CROSS=TRANSVERSE MEDIAN OF CRESSON; 8, RADIAL; 9, THIRD 
CUBITAL CROSS; 10, SECOND CUBITAL CROSS; 11, FIRST CUBITAL CROSS; 12, CUBITUS; 13, FIRST DISCOIDAL 
CROSS= FIRST RECURRENT OF CRESSON; 14, SECOND DISCOIDAL CROSS=SECOND RECURRENT OF CRESSON. 
CELLS: A, COSTAL; B, RADIAL; C, FIRST CUBITAL; D, SECOND CUBITAL; E, THIRD CUBITAL; F', MEDIAN; 
G, SUBMEDIAN; H, SECOND SUBMEDIAN=SECOND DISCOIDAL OF CRESSON; I, FIRST DISCOIDAL; J, SECOND 
DISCOIDAL= THIRD DISCOIDAL OF CRESSON; K, ANAL; L, BASAL LOBE; M, BASAL SINUS; N, ANAL SINUS; 
R, RETINACULUM. 


ment is in reality the second. Each abdominal segment is composed 
externally of an arched dorsal plate and a flat ventral plate; the former 
is termed the tergite, the latter the sternite. The abdomen of the 
female is composed of six visible segments; that of the male of seven. 
The eighth segment of the male is concealed and bears the genitalia. 
The sixth tergite of the female in some species shows a more or less 
conspicuous lateral ridge at either side and when these ridges are 
present the area between them is termed the pygidial area or pygi- 
dium. The second sternite of the male, or the second and also the 
sixth, frequently shows a median special structure various in form 
and variously referred to as a process, tubercle, tooth, or spine. 

The wings lie flat when at rest and the general type of venation 
is shown in the sketch above. 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 5 


KEY TO GENERA. 


1. Anterior ocellar cicatrix circular or eliptical in form, sometimes placed in a pit... .2. 
1. Anterior ocellar cicatrix linear, transverse, straight or curved, in a few species the 
oeollemmat completely: obliterated. /.03.06 6 os ele ates 4. 
2. Maxillae exceedingly long, when at rest reaching the posterior coxae; maxillary 
palpi with three segments, labial with one..................-.-.------ Steniolia. 
2. Maxillae shorter, when at rest folded behind the labrum; maxillary palpi with six 
ROOT INTILA Wikee TOUTS Soe ec Sele Ie, ae ore wag ahem Sauieeat a. 
3. Anterior ocellar cicatrix not placed in a pit; seventh tergite of male with lateral 
spines, eighth sternite ending in a single spine and middle femora with a strong, 
curved tooth below near the distal end..................-..----------- Stictia. 
8. Anterior ocellar cicatrix placed in a pit; seventh tergite of male without lateral 
spines, middle femora without curved tooth below at distal end, eighth sternite 
ending in three spines, and in many species bearing a fourth discal spine - Stictiella. 
4. Posterior surface of median segment concave, its lateral angles prolonged, com- 
pressed and wedge-like; maxillary palpi with six segments, labial with four; 


eighth sternite of male ending in three spines.............----------+--- Bicyrtes. 
4. Posterior surface of median segment flat or convex, its lateral angles rounded; palpi 
otherwise; eighth sternite of male ending in a single spine................----5. 
5. Mandibles dentate; apical end of radial cell of anterior wing on costal border; 
maxillary palpi with four segments, labial with two...........-....--- Bembiz. 
5. Mandibles not dentate; apical end of radial cell of anterior wing not on costal border; 
maxillary palpi with three segments, labial with one.............- Microbembex. 


Genus STENIOLIA Say. 


Steniolia Say, Bost. Journ. Nat. Hist., vol. 1, 1837, p. 367. 

Steniolia Tatton, Bull. U.S. Geol. Surv., vol. 5, 1880, p. 364. 

Steniolia Hanpuirscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—-Nat. Cl., vol. 98, 
Abth. 1, 1889, p. 504. 

Steniolia Kou, Die Gatt. d. Spheg., 1896, p. 435. 

Type.—Bembex longirostra Say (monobasic). 

The wasps belonging to this genus vary in length from eighteen to 
twenty millimeters. The head when viewed from in front is wider 
than long, its width being about equal to that of the thorax. The 
compound eyes are large and strongly arched; their inner borders 
are approximately parallel and below they reach almost to the base 
of the mandibles. On the frons between the antennae there is a short 
but very evident carina. The ocelli are not developed and their 
cicatrices are sunk in pits; the posterior pair are circular, the anterior 
one is elliptical, sometimes approaching the circular form. The 
occiput is very narrow and the cheeks are but moderately developed. 

The mandible, which ends in a single point, has its outer margin 
entire and its inner margin provided with a tooth near the apex. 
The maxillae are unusually long, extending when at rest to the third 
pair of coxae. The tongue, equal in length to the maxillae, is provided 
at the base with a pair of long thread-like paraglossae. The maxillary 
palpus is composed of three segments, the labial of one. The labrum 
is large, blunt, and but slightly emarginate at the apex. It is swollen 
at the base and appears somewhat pear-shaped. It shows a flat- 


6 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


tened, median area near the base, on either side of which there is a 
slight, rounded prominence. 

The clypeus is arched, wider than long, its apical border straight 
or slightly arcuate; it bears a slight median carina continuous with 
the carina between the antenne. These are long and slender and | 
possess few characters of value in separating species, although in the 
case of the male of some species several of the flagellar segments are 
carinate on the posterior suface. The antennae are inserted on the 
frons quite close to the basal margin of the clypeus and the distance 
between the points of insertion is slightly less than the distance from 
the point of insertion to the inner margin of the adjacer.t eye. They 
consist of 13 segments in the male and of 12 in the female. 

The collar, or posterior border of the prothorax, is quite narrow 
and is placed much below the level of the scutum. The tubercles do 
not reach the tegulae above. Thescutum, scutellum, and metanotum 
are relatively flat. The epimeron of the mesothorax is well defined, 
but the suture uniting the episternum and sternum of the mesothorax 
is lacking. The metapleura joins the side of the median segment 
almost at a right angle, thus forming a depression into which the 
femur of the middle leg is drawn when at rest. 

The median segment is rather short and tapers toward the pos- 
terior. Its lateral angles are not compressed but are rounded off. 
As in related genera, the dorsal middle-field of the median segment is 
large, plainly set off, and is extended down upon the nearly vertical 
posterior surface of the segment. ‘The tergites are arched, the ster- 
nites almost flat. On no species is there found a pygidial area set off 
by lateral lines on the ultimate tergite of the female. The second 
sternite of the male bears near its posterior margin a median, pointed, 
backwardly directed, tooth-like process that in most species is promi- 
nently developed, but in one is quite rudimentary. The sixth ster- 
nite is without a process of any kind in this genus and the seventh is 
concealed beneath the sixth. The eighth sternite of the male ends 
in three spines and a fourth is present upon the disk. The develop- 
ment of the spines affords specific characters. The genitalia of the 
male consists of a short basal piece, which bears the long lateral 
* genital stipites, a pair of median curved sagittae, above which on the 
median line lies the spatha which ends in a pair of hooks. 

The front wing. The pterostigma is vestigial. The radial cell, 
which is nearly as long as the first cubital cell, is narrowed toward its 
apical end, which lies on the costal border. Of the three cubital cells 
the first is long, exceeding the combined length of the second and 
third. The second is shorter than the third, rectangular in form 
though usually somewhat narrowed on the radial vein; it receives 
both discoidal cross veins. The third cubital cross vein is strongly 
bent toward the apical border of the wing but does not extend far- 


No. 2178. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 7 


ther toward the margin of the wing than the end of the radial cell. 
The angle formed by this vein and the radial vein and opening toward 
the apical border of the wing is acute. The second discoidal cross 
vein on its anterior third is strongly bent toward the apical border of 
the wing but is not angular and does not subtend a short vein. The 
first submedian cell, which terminates near the origin of the basal 
vein, is scarcely longer than the second, which gradually increases in 
breadth toward its distal end. The basal vein joins the subcosta at a 
distance from the radial cell equal at least to the length of that cell. 

The hind wing. The retinaculum consists of a row of small hook- 
lets beginning near the origin of the radial vein and extending toward 
the apex of the wing. The median cell is greatly prolonged, reaching 
almost to the apical border of the wing toward which two short veins 
extend from the end of the cell. The submedian cell ends anterior 
to or at the origin of the cubital vein. The hinder angle of the sub- 
median cell, formed by the junction of the submedial and submedial 
cross veins, is obtuse. 

The legs are relatively long and slender. The middle coxae are 
slightly separated from one another and the middle femora are never 
toothed, serrate, or dentate on species thus far discovered. The 
tibiae and tarsi are provided with more or less well-developed spines. 
The anterior tarsi of the female are provided with combs, consisting 
of long spines, of which seven are present on the metatarsus and two on 
each of the three following segments. These tarsal combs are weakly 
developed on the males and those males having the middle tibiae 
dilated lack the combs altogether. In the case of the males of the 
two species that have the middle tibiae dilated the middle metatarsus 
is somewhat curved and the distal half is flattened and thin. The 
claws are slender and the pulvilli are well developed. 

The sculpturing is fine, close, and uniform, and affords little ground 
for the distinguishing of species. ‘The pubescence is more prominent 
on some species than on others, is better developed on the male than 
on the female and is most conspicuous in all cases on the head, thorax, 
median segment, and base of abdomen. The maculations consist of 
spots, stripes, and lines on the head, thorax, and median segment, 
and of bands, continuous or broken, on the segments of the abdomen. 
The color of the maculations varies among the species from bright 
yellow to nearly clear white. 

Steniolia is distinguished from nearly related genera as follows: 
From all by the unusual length of the proboscis; also from Bicyrtes by 
the form of the median segment, the number of segments in the palpi, 
the character of the ocellar cicatrices, the apical narrowing of the 
radial cell, and the form of the eighth sternite of the male; from 
Stictua by the number of segments in the palpi and the apical narrow- 
ing of the radial cell; from Bembix by the character of the ocellar 


8 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52, 


cicatrices, the number of.segments in the palpi, the form of the eighth 
sternite of the male, the narrowing of the radial cell, the direction of 
the submedial cross vein of the hind wing, and the character of the 
outwardly opening angle formed by the third cubital cross vein and 
the radial vein; from Microbembex by the character of the ocellar 
cicatrices, the form of the eighth sternite of the male, and the fact 
that the apical end of the radial cell in the wing of Microbemez, does 
not lie on the costal border. 


KEY TO SPECIES. 


Males. 
2, MAGMIO tibIRe NGL UUATCE .< .o).\6 vsccc saints ee oe sete a2 Je ereeie ihe a. oe 2: 
P peio tbise GuUated 4.0 lo. cco see bla nit one om web ee Ree Ree oe einle ne 5. 
AeA eal Rete OF “CATS ILA... luce ls eel amine acc ago cleat ee nin see nigripes. 
2: Ayiosl sopmient of tarsi not black (005.0 ee esse ee ee tee) nee 3. 
3). Abdomen aimostientarely iyellow - - 2.22) sc sae. anid. tae ae ee sulfurea. 
a wARaomen Searle and. soll wy ei hs hc iceial ie ha pl oie vie dit eiepre ble nh «lah en 4, 
4. Length, 14-18 mm.; dorsal abdominal maculations yellow; spot on mesopleura 
large, usually meeting its fellow on the midventral line............-... duplicata. 
4. Length, 18-20 mm.; dorsalabdominal maculations soiled white; spot on mesopleura 
small, never meeting its fellow on midventral line.................-.-- albicantia. 
bo abdominal maciilatwons white: ...2 cee ek eee, gens eh ee ae ie obliqua. 
5 Aboominal maculations yellows: o050to. eis: feeble ees bes oni cers tibialis. 
Females 
te Mieale ide noLoslated W.. isi ec20oSSil ke abe ea a duplicata. 
i Maddie tabiapmilated isos cies hk es. a eke etiee eee ae elo beeen oe a eee 2. 
DAA DaomInad MACHATIONS Whee isco aie ek pea caine chp oie eee eae obliqua. 
EP. SADAGMinal WIACHIATIONS VOLOW =. nic. + 2) cin ie ae eis b a eral Mere al tela aaa tibialis. 


STENIOLIA NIGRIPES, new species. 
Figs. 7, 12, 17, 18, 19. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except tips, clypeus, scape 
and first two flagellar segments below, lower part of frons continuous 
with the broad anterior orbits, which are narrowed above, triangular 
spot on either side of anterior ocellus, narrow posterior orbits broad- 
~ened below, posterior border of pronotum and spot on sides of pro- 
thorax united on tubercles but separated in front of them by a long 
irregular black spot, spot on tegulae, short lateral line above tegulae 
and pair of discal spots on scutum, triangular spots on scutellum, 
metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median segment extended 
onto its posterior surface where there is a narrow medial interruption, 
lateral angles and sides of median segment, large irregular spot on 
mesopleurae, metapleurae, longitudinal line on mesosternum united at 
either end with the large spot on mesopleurae thus enclosing a large 
black area, broad fasciae on tergites 1-6, first interrupted medially, 
deeply emarginate anteriorly in the middle and acutely though less 
deeply emarginate posteriorly on either side of the median line, 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 9 


second continuous though emarginate anteriorly in the middle, the 
emargination produced to right and left in the middle of the fascia, 
also thrice emarginate on posterior border, remaining fasciae of simi- 
lar pattern with emarginations reduced on each succeeding segment, 
apex of ultimate tergite, first sternite except small lateral spots, 
second except small anterior lateral spots and a median longitudinal 
spot, broad fasciae on sternites 3-6 narrowed somewhat irregularly in 
the middle, coxae, trochanters more or less, femora except a stripe 
above on all pairs and a stripe below on first pair, tibiae, and tarsi 
except all apical segments, yellow. 

The color on the abdomen is light greenish yellow, while that 
on the rest of the body is of a deeper shade. Segments 3-5 of the 
flagellum are reddish below, the apical segment slightly curved, and 
segments 5-11 on the posterior surface are slightly carinate. As on 
duplicata small pits occur on these carinae, but they are limited to 
the middle part, whereas on duplicata they extend the full length of 
the carma. The legs show no special structures, but the apical seg- 
ment of all tarsiis black. The head, thorax, basal joints of legs, and 
base of abdomen are covered with moderately dense white pubescence, 
rather short except on the head, on the vertex of which it assumes a 
brownish shade. The spine on the second sternite is short, sharp, 
and directed obliquely backward. Of the three spines which ter- 
minate the eighth sternite the two lateral are quite short, and the 
middle one, long and very heavy, bears on its ventral side beyond its 
middle point distally a fourth very short spine. 

Length.—18 millimeters. 

Hatbitat—Los Angeles, California. 

Number of specimens—male 1, female, 0. 

Type.—Male, in the collection of the American Entomological 
Society of Philadelphia. 


STENIOLIA SULFUREA Fox. 
Steniolia sulfurea Fox, Journ. N. Y. Ent. Soc., vol. 9, 1901, p. 84. 


Male.—Black: Clypeus, labrum, mandibles except tips, scape 
except black line above, spot between insertions of antennae, spot 
on each side of anterior ocellus, anterior orbits, posterior orbits 
shortened and narrowed above, small spot on tegulae, narrow line on 
posterior border of sides of prothorax, small spot on anterior part of 
mesopleurae low down and extending onto the mesosternum, on one 
specimen second small spot below insertion of wing, two small spots 
on metapleurae, legs except a variable amount of black on coxae and 
trochanters, and abdomen entirely except the basal part of the first 
segment, bright sulphur yellow. 

The pubescence on the head, thorax, and base of abdomen is long, 
dense and white except on the vertex and the scutum where it is 


10 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL, 52. 


somewhat dusky. The flagellum is yellow below basally but is 
darker toward the apex. Flagellar segments 3-8 on the posterior 
surface are slightly but distinctly carinate. On the distal border of 
the second sternite there is a rudimentary process. On one speci- 
men the distal half of the apical tarsal segment is black; on the other 
there is only a suffused trace of this dark color. This species is very 
distinct and can not be confused with any other thus far described 
from the United States. 

Length.—About 20 milimeters. 

Habitat.—California. 

Number of specimens—males, 2; females, none. 

Type.—Male, in the collection of the American Museum of Natural 
History at New York. 


STENIOLIA DUPLICATA Provancher. 
Figs. 1, 8, 13, 20, 21, 22. 


Steniolia duplicata ProvancuEer, Add. Faun. Canada, Hymen., 1888, p. 414, 
male and female. 

Steniolia scolopacea HaNpuiirscH, Sitz. Acad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl. 
vol. 98. 1889, p. 510, male, female. 

Steniolia duplicata Fox, Ent. News, vol. 2, 1891, p. 195. 

Steniolia edwardsui Parton, Proc. Ent. Soc. Wash., vol. 3, 1894, p. 45. 

Steniolia scolopacea Hanpuirscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. 
Cl., vol. 104, Abth. 1, 1895, p. 965. 


Male.—Black: Clypeus, mandibles except tips, labrum, scape, 
first two flagellar segments below, frons below insertion of antennae, 
broad anterior orbits narrowed above, triangular spot on either side 
of anterior ocellus sometimes united below it, narrow posterior orbits 
broadened below, posterior border of pronotum and large spot on 
side of prothorax united on tubercles but separated by a long irregular 
black line in front of them, spot on base of anterior wings, tegulae 
anteriorly, short line on scutum above base of wings, pair of discal 
spots and frequently a short transverse median line on posterior 
border of same, pair of triangular spots on scutellum, metanotum, 
curved fascia on dorsum of median segment extending onto the pos- 
terior surface where it is interrupted medially, lateral angles and sides 
of median segment, large spot on mesopleurae, small one above this 
beneath base of anterior wing, large spot on metapleurac, broad fas- 
ciae on all tergites usually interrupted medially and emarginated 
both anteriorly and posteriorly in such a fashion as to cut off more or 
less completely a pair of median rounded spots on the more anterior 
tergites, first sternite except anterior lateral spots, second except 
pair of anterior lateral and median longitudinal spots which in many 
specimens are united, fasciae on sternites 3-6 undulate anteriorly, 
coxae except basally, trochanters below, femora except stripe above, 
tibiae except stripe on posterior side of first pair, and tarsi, yellow. 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. ves 


The wings are hyaline and the veins brown. The body and the 
basal joints of the legs are covered with moderately dense white 
pubescence, longest on vertex, at base of mandibles and on posterior 
part of median segment. Pubescence of the abdomen except on 
base of first segment is much shorter than elsewhere on the body. 
The flagellum, except two basal joints, is reddish below darkening 
toward the apex and is slightly carinate posteriorly on segments 7-11, 
the carina inclosing small longitudinal pits. The second sternite 
bears a well developed process and the eighth ends in three curved 
spines of which the central, longer one has, arising from its base 
beneath, a fourth spine, short, stout, pointed and obliquely directed 
backward. 

The female is quite similar to the male in general appearance and 
color markings. The lower surface of the flagellum is somewhat 
lighter and the yellow, especially on the scutum and the abdomen, 
is somewhat more extensive, consequently fewer of the fasciae on 
the tergites are interrupted medially and the median paired spots 
less frequently completely formed. The yellow on the sternites is 
also more extensive. In some specimens the black is limited to a 
medial spot on the second and narrow basal borders on sternites 3-5. 
The ultimate segment is yellow apically with a deep median anterior 
notch above and a less evident one below, and its tergite basally 
bears at the sides a cluster of short stout spines. 

Length.—14-18 mm. 

In the last volume of his monograph, page 965, Handlirsch places 
duplicata Provancher as a probable synonym of scolopacea Hand- 
lirsch, giving as his reasons for so doing the fact that the two descrip- 
tions were published at about the same time and that he could not 
determine from Provancher’s description whether it was based upon 
scolopacea Handlirsch or tibialis Handlirsch. I cannot accept this 
contention. The description of duplicata Provancher, which appeared 
in the issue of Le Naturaliste Canadien for November, 1888, was 
published prior to that of scolopacea Handlirsch. Provancher’s 
type is what is known to entomologists in America as duplicata; it 
is not tbialis Handlirsch. It, therefore, can not by any possible 
means be made a synonym of scolopacea Handlirsch and must stand 
as a good species. As far as it is possible to judge from the descrip- 
tion of scolopacea given by Handlirsch his species is identical with 
Provancher’s duplicata. 

Habitat.—Mexico, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Colorado, 
Utah, and Washington. 

Number of specimens, males 267, females 195. 


12 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


STENIOLIA ALBICANTIA, new species. 
Figs. 9, 14, 23, 24, 25. 


Male.—Black: labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except a 
pair of small black basal spots, spot on either side of anterior ocellus, 
space between antennae, scape and first two flagellar segments below, 
anterior and posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum, tubercles 
and more or less of the sides of the prothorax, spot on tegulae, small 
lateral spots on scutum above base of wing, triangular lateral spots on 
scutellum, fascia on metanotum, small spot on mesopleurae, spot on 
metopleurae, large spot on sides of median segment, smaller one near 
the spiracle of the segment, fascia of first tergite broken into pair of 
large lateral spots and a pair of dorsal triangular spots on posterior 
part of tergite, fascia of second similar to that of first, but with the 
anterior border of the lateral spots prolonged medially and the pair 
of dorsal spots larger and more elliptical, remaining fasciae similar 
in design but in most specimens not broken into dorsal and lateral 
spots, apex of ultimate tergite, continuous fasciae on all sternites 
emarginate medially, spot on coxae below, stripe on anterior and 
posterior surfaces of femora, tibiz except spot below on all, and tarsi, 
pale yellowish or soiled white. 

Length.—18-21 mm. 

In development the antennae, legs, and genital stipes are quite 
similar to those of duplicata. Segments 4-11 of the flagellum bear 
narrow elongate pits on the posterior surface. The second sternite 
bear a prominent, pointed spine. It differs from duplicata in having 
the pubescence of the head and thorax somewhat better developed, 
in being of larger size, in having the mesosternum black, and in the 
reduction of the markings of the scutum and dorsum of the median 
segment, which latter is without maculations on the type and on all 
specimens except one. It is more robust than duplicata, showing a 
relatively greater width of thorax and abdomen. Furthermore, the 
maculations, especially the dorsal markings of the abdomen, are in 
color quite distinct from those of duplicata. In that species the 
markings are usually a bright clear yellow, whereas in albicantia 
they are a soiled faded yellow or muddy white. 

Halitat.— Washington and Oregon. 

Number of specimens examined—males 9, females 0. 

Type.—Cat. No. 19802 U.S.N.M. 


STENIOLIA OBLIQUA Cresson. 
Figs. 10, 15, 26, 27, 28, 31. 


Monedula obliqua Cresson, Proc. Ent. Soc. Phila., vol. 4, 1865, p. 469, female. 
Steniolia obliqua Hanpuirscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, vol. 98, 1889, p. 
511, pl. 1, fig. 16, female and male. 


Male.—Black: Clypeus, labrum, mandibles except tips, scape and 
first two segments of flagellum below, frons below insertion of anten- 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 2s 


nae, broad anterior orbits narrowed above, very narrow interrupted 
posterior orbits, spot on anterior and medial coxae below, sometimes 
spot on mesosternum just behind anterior coxae, anterior femora 
anteriorly for the most part, medial and posterior femora on anterior 
surface distally, tibiae except stripe on posterior surface, pale greenish 
yellow. Spot on tubercles, spot on tegulae, pair of triangular spots 
laterally on scutellum, short fascia on metanotum, fascia of first ter- 
gite broken into a pair of median rounded spots and a pair of large 
lateral spots, fasciae on tergites 2-6 continuous and undulate, that 
on second extended forward on either side of the midline in the form 
of an inwardly directed tooth, ultimate tergite apically, lateral spots 
on sternites 2-6, and tarsi more or less, whate. 

The apical segment of the posterior tarsus is black and the remaining 
segments distally more or less so; the distal half of the ultimate seg- 
ment of the middle tarsus is also black. The head, thorax, basal 
joints of the legs including the femora, first segment of the abdomen 
above and first and second below are densely covered with a long 
white pubescence. On the posterior part of the abdomen the pube- 
scence is shorter and less conspicuous. The flagellum at the union of 
the segments is distinctly notched posteriorly and most evident at 
the distal end of segments 5-9. The somewhat prominent areas seen 
on segments 6-11 posteriorly lack the pits found on duplicata. The 
middle femora are dilated apically and the spine at the distal end in 
front is strongly curved. Seen from in front the basal half of the 
middle metatarsus appears curved or emarginate on the inner side and 
the distal half dilated, due to the presence of a broad but thin carina 
on the inner surface running somewhat obliquely downward and for- 
ward to the tip of the joint. The second sternite bears a distinct 
tooth-like process and the eighth ends in three short very hirsute 
spines. At the base of the middle one on the ventral surface there is 
a short blunt process from which two carina diverge basally. The 
dorsal aspect of this ventral plate is characterized by a semicircular 
crest continuous with the base of the outer spines and enclosing a 
prominent pit at the base of the middle spine. 

Female.—Black: Clypeus, labrum, mandibles except tips, scape 
and first two flagellar segments below, frons below insertion of an- 
tennae, broad anterior orbits narrowed above, narrow interrupted 
posterior orbits, posterior margin of pronotum united with tubercles 
from which a line extends downward, spot on tegulae, spot on anterior 
and middle coxae below, anterior and posterior stripe more or less well 
developed on anterior and middle femora, posterior femora distally, 
tibiae except spot on posterior surface, and coxae, yellow, the color 
deeper on legs than elsewhere. Triangular lateral spots on scutellum, 
fascia on metanotum, fascia on first tergite broken into a pair of 
rounded medial spots and broad lateral spots, undulate continuous 


14 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


fasciae on tergites 2-5, that on segment two on either side of midline 
prolonged forward in the form of an inwardly pointed tooth, those on 
third and fourth less prolonged, ultimate tergite with bilobed spot at 
apex, lateral spots on sternites 2-6, white, sometimes tinged with 
ereenish yellow. 

The distal joint of the flagellum is reddish at the apex and the seg- 
ments beyond the second are more or less so below. The middle 
tibiae are dilated; the first segment of the middle tarsus is only 
slightly curved basally and lacks the carina found on the male. The 
pubescence is similar to that of the male but somewhat less well 
developed. 

Length.—14-16 mm. 

The color of the markings of this species varies from yellow through 
yellowish or greenish white to almost white. All the flagellar seg- 
ments may be lighter beneath than above, but the light color is more 
pronounced on the proximal ones and always more in evidende on the 
female than on the male. The lateral spots on sternites 2-5 may or 
may not be connected by apical lines on the female; they are not so 
connected on the male. The spots on the sixth sternite of the female 
are sometimes united. On some specimens there is an irregular spot 
on the side of the median segment posteriorly, extending slightly onto 
its posterior surface. The line on the posterior border of the pro- 
notum of the male may be wanting or present as two widely separated 
spots, and the fasciae on tergites 2-4 may be interrupted medially. 

In this species the eyes are not so widely separated as in duplicata, 
and in both males and females they are distinctly divergent at the 
clypeus. 

Habitat.—Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, British Columbia. 

Number of specimens examined—males 8, females 14. 


STENIOLIA TIBIALIS Handlirsch. 
Figs. 11, 16, 29, 30, 32, 33. 


Steniolia tibialis Hanpuirscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, vol. 98, 1889, p. 
513, pl. 2, fig. 1, male and female. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except tips, clypeus, scape 
below, first two flagellar segments below, smallspot between antennae, 
anterior orbits, narrow posterior orbits, broken line on posterior 
border of pronotum, tubercles and narrow line on sides of prothorax, 
spot on tegulae, lateral spots on scutellum, sometimes short fascia on 
metanotum, pair of large lateral spots and pair of small medium pos- 
terior dorsal spots on first tergite, continuous fasciae on tergites 2-6, 
that on second with a deep anterior medial emargination which is 
produced to right and left posteriorly, remaining fasciae with shallow 
anterior median biemarginations, seventh tergite apically, lateral 
spots on sternites 2-6, femora distally more or less, tibiae except line 
on first pair below, and tarsi, yellow. 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 15 


The flagellum, except the basal segments below, is black and 
although specialized areas are present these do not bear pits as do 
those found on duplicata. The middle tibia and metatarsus are 
modified in a fashion almost identical with that of obhiqua. The 
apical half of the ultimate segment of the tarsi is decidedly dusky. 
The process op the second sternite is short sharp and obliquely 
directed backward. 

Female.—Black: Clypeus, labrum, mandibles except tips, scape, 
and basal joints of flagellum below, frons below insertion of antennae, 
small spot before anterior ocellus, anterior orbits, posterior orbits 
quite narrow above, posterior of pronotum, tubercles, spot on tegulae, 
brief lateral line on scutum above base of anterior wings, large lateral 
spots on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, spot on lateral angles of 
median segment extended on the side and somewhat on the posterior 
surface of same, spot on mesopleurae, small spots on metapleurae, 
fascia of first tergite broken into a pair of very large lateral spots and 
a pair of elliptical medial spots approximated on median line, the 
remaining fasciae slightly undulate laterally, deeply and double 
emarginate medially, the fasciae on second and third produced for- 
ward and inward on either side of the emargination, most conspic- 
uous on second, broad fasciae on sternites 2-5, ultimate segment api- 
cally both above and below, spot on coxae below, quite small on pos- 
terior pair, anterior and posterior borders of anterior and middle 
femora, most evident on anterior pair, and coxae, yellow. 

The intermediate tibiae are dilated as in the case of obliqua and the 
first segment of the middle tarsus is slightly curved basally; wings 
very slightly infumated. The pubescence is similar to that of 
obliqua, to which species this one is very similar, save in the color of 
the maculations. 

Length.—16 mm. 

Habitat.—California, Nevada. 

Number of specimens—males 3, females 3. 


Genus STICTIA Illiger. 


Vespa signata LINNAEUS, Systema Naturae, ed. 10, vol. 1, 1758, p. 574. 

Bembyx Faprictius, Syst. Ent., 1775, p. 361. 

Bembex Fasrictus, Mant. Ins., vol. 1, 1787, p. 285. 

Monedula LAtTRELE, Hist. Nat. Ins., vol. 3, 1802, p. 343. 

Stictia Int1icgER, Fauna Etrusca (Rossi), ed. 2, vol. 2, 1807, p. 131. 

Bembex DautBom, Hym. Eur., vol. 1, 1845, p. 486. 

Monedula DautBom, Hym. Eur., vol. 1, 1845, p. 492. 

Monedula Burmeister, Bol. Acad. Cordova, vol. 1, 1874, p. 110. 

Monedula Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. Cl., vol. 99, 
Abth. 1, 1890, p. 77. 

Monedula Kount, Die Gatt. d. Spheg., 1896, p. 436. 

Stictia Fox, Ent. News, 1901, p. 269. 


Type.—Vespa signata Linnaeus, by present designation. 


16 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


The head seen from in front is broader than long and almost as 
broad as the thorax. The compound eyes are large and strongly 
arched. The inner margins are divergent at the clypeus, rarely sub- 
parallel, and the lower margin reaches the base of the mandible. The 
facets near the inner border of the eye are slightly larger than those 
near the outer border, the change in size from one margin to the other 
being almost imperceptible. The frons on the males is usually nar- 
rower than the compound eye measured at the level just above the 
insertion of the antennae; on the females it equals or exceeds the width 
of the eye at the same level. The ocellar cicatrices are flat, not sunk 
in a pit, and are semicircular in form. The anterior one is greater 
than a semicircle, somewhat horseshoe-shaped, with the opening 
directed toward the clypeus; the posterior ones are a trifle greater 
than a semicircle, of which the open side is toward the compound 
eye. The precipitous posterior surface of the head is concave and the 
temples are quite narrow. 

The outer border of the mandible is entire, the apex simple, and 
the inner border provided with three teeth. The labrum is relatively 
flat, longer than broad, and, as in the case of Bicyrtes, is bluntly 
rounded at the end, not emarginate. The maxillae are moderately 
long, stoutly developed and each is half-conical in form so that when 
the two are approximated they form a tube within which lies the 
tongue. The maxillary palpi consist of six segments, the labial of 
four. As in the case of Bembix the maxillae when folded at rest are 
concealed beneath the labrum. The clypeus is wider than long and is 
but slightly arched, less so than in the case of Bembiz. On the distal 
median part above the base of the labrum there is in nearly all species 
a somewhat triangular area above which on the median line there is 
a short but evident carina continuous with the median carina of the 
frons separating the antenne. On either side of this carina the 
base of the clypeus slopes abruptly in toward the insertion of the 
antenna. The antennae are inserted quite close to the base of the 
clypeus and consist in the female of 12 segments, in the male of 13, 
in which case several of the flagellar segments may bear modifications 
that are useful in determining species. 

As in the case of Bembia the dorsum of the thorax is relatively flat, 
the posterior border of the prothorax is much below the level of the 
scutum, and the tubercles do not reach the tegulae. The suture be- 
tween the sternum and episternum of the mesothorax is obliterated. 
The median segment shows a clearly defined, broad, dorsal middle- 
field, which is continued upon the almost vertical posterior surface 
of the segment. The lateral angles of the segment are roundly 
prominent, not so sharply compressed as in the case of Bicyrtes 
nor so bluntly rounded off as in the case of Bembia. 


No. 21738. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 17 


The abdomen is relatively stout and widest at the junction of the 
first and second segments. The tergites are strongly arched, the 
sternites flat. The ultimate tergite of the males is provided with 
prominent lateral processes or spines and the median prolongation is 
emarginate at the end. The ultimate tergite of the females lacks 
the spines, is rounded apically, and its surface, punctate or slightly 
rugose, is without a pygidial area. On the second sternite of the 
male there is a median prominence or carina more or less well devel- 
oped; this is also discernible on the females of some species, but on 
others it is wholly lacking. The sixth sternite of the male bears a 
conspicuous median area that is slightly raised and is finely punctate 
or granular. The eighth sternite of the male ends in a single, stout, 
curved spine. 

The male genital armature consists of a basal piece (cardo) which 
bears the lateral stipites, the median spatha, and below this the 
sagittae. The stipites are strongly chitinized, long, curved, and 
pointed. The spatha is roundly dilated at the end and bears a deep 
median cleft. The form is distinctly different from that in any of 
the closely related genera. The sagitta is a divided structure; the 
dorsal or inner part, the longer and the more slender of the two, is 
weakly chitinized and somewhat hirsute; the ventral or outer part 
is heavier, shorter, not strongly chitinized and very hirsute. 

The legs are relatively long and strong. The middle coxae are 
separated. The middle femora of the males bear near the distal end 
on the lower border a conspicuous, curved, distally directed tooth. 
All tibiae and tarsi in both sexes are beset with spines, which are 
better developed in the female than in the male. In both sexes the 
anterior tarsi are provided with tarsal combs, which are much better 
developed in the females than in the males. The pulvilli are large 
and conspicuous and the middle tibiae bear at the distal end asingle 
spur. 

The wings are much like those of Bembiz. The pterostigma of the 
anterior wing is obliterated. The radial cell is long, narrow, of 
nearly uniform width and rounded at the distal end, which lies on the 
costal border of the wing. The first cubital cross vein, as in Bembiz 
near its posterior end is strongly bent toward the proximal end of the 
wing. The second cubital cell, which receives both discoidal cross 
veins, is much wider on the cubital vein than on the radial. The 
third cubital cross vein is deflected toward the distal end of the wing 
and at the posterior end is rounded so that the third cubital cell 
extends as far toward the distal end of the wing as does the radial 
cell. The angle formed by the junction of the radial and third cu- 
bital cross veins and opening outward is acute. The first submedian 
cell is longer than the second, which steadily increases in width 

65008°—Proc.N.M.vol,52—17——-2 


18 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


toward the distal end. The basal vein arises at the distal end of the 
first submedian cell. 

The retinaculum on the hind wing, consisting of an unbroken row 
of hooklets, begins proximal to the origin of the radial vein, which 
reaches near to the distal end of the wing. The median cell is long. 
The cubitus arises quite near the distal end of the submedian cell. 
The posterior distal angle of the submedial cell formed by the sub- 
median and submedian cross veins is obtuse, sometimes approaching 
a right angle. The submedian vein terminates in the anal sinus. 
In some species the wings are more or less infumated, in others they 
are hyaline. 

The pubescence is short and inconspicuous, especially on the fe- 
males. The punctation is shallow, fine, and uniform affording little 
ground for the separation of species. 

This generic description is based on a limited number of species 
from the United States, Mexico, West Indies, Central and South 
America 


KEY TO SPECIES. 


Males. 


1. Lateral spines of seventh tergite pointed at tip; thorax maculated; first tergite 
with a double fascia interrupted medially; fasciae of following tergites not broken 


into PPObs. = a22t-teeee dire teebiehmd pened bute abe eer ea ieee! 2) vente signata. 

1. Lateral spines of seventh tergite truncate at tip; thorax immaculate; fascia on 

third tergite reduced to four (rarely two) spots................-.-----0- carolina. 
Females. 


1. Scutum with a pair of lateral and pair of discal stripes; sternites 1-4 almost wholly 
pellow shite ck Bere ee, FR ee BRN Reh Be Le Se signata 
1. Scutum black; yellow on sternites confined to triangular lateral spots. .... carolina. 


STICTIA SIGNATA Linnaeus. 
’ Figs. 34, 35, 38, 39, 43. 


Vespa signata LINNAEUS, Syst. Nat., ed. 10, vol. 1, 1758, p. 574. 

Bembex signata Fasricius, Syst. Ent., 1775, p. 361. 

Bembex vespiformis OutviER, Encycl. Meth., vol. 4, 1789, p. 290, pl. 106, fig. 18. 

Monedula signata LEPELETIER, Hym., vol. 3, 1845, p. 283. 

Monedula signata Hanpurrscnu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl., 
vol. 99, 1890, p. 86. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except 
a pair of vertical lines basally which may be broken into spots, lower 
part of frons usually extended medially above the insertion of the 
antenne, scape below, broad anterior orbits ending above in a lateral 
spot on either side of the anterior ocellus, posterior orbits broad 
below, narrow above, and ending in a small spot on either side of the 
vertex, posterior border of pronotum continued to the tubercles, 
where it is united with a large spot on sides of prothorax, pair of 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 19 


broad lateral lines and pair of discal lines on scutum, spot on tegulae, 
spot on base of anterior wings, fascia on anterior margin of scutellum 
widest laterally, metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median 
segment, pair of triangular spots on its posterior surface, which are 
sometimes united with the fascia above, its postero-lateral angles and 
its sides almost wholly, mesopleure and metapleure except borders 
of sutures, mesosternum except pair of lateral spots, fasciae of ter- 
gites, interrupted medially, the first broad laterally and horseshoe- 
shaped dorsally on either side of the midline, second to fifth of the 
same pattern as the first, but with the anterior half of the horseshoe 
more or less imperfectly developed, sixth broken into four spots, 
pair of lateral spots on ultimate tergite, sternites 1-5 except medial 
spots on 2-5, which on 5 and sometimes on 4 are continuous with an 
anterior black border, the legs except small black spot on posterior 
side of all femora and black spot on knees prolonged on upper side of 
posterior tibiae, yellow. 

The flagellum is black, with the underside somewhat testaceous 
especially toward the apex. Its ultimate segment is slightly curved 
and obliquely truncate apically. Segments 6 and 10-12 are excavated 
or pitted and 7-9 are somewhat rounded out below. The middle 
femora below near the distal end bear a short, blunt, curved tooth. 
The second sternite basally bears a moderately developed carina. 
The sixth is black and medially bears a slightly raised, transverse, 
semicircular area conspicuous for its fine, close punctation. The 
ultimate tergite is notched at the tip and its lateral angles are devel- 
oped in the form of short, stout, acutely pointed spines. 

Female.—The female is quite similar to the male in general appear- 
ance, but to the color description of the male the following additions 
are necessary: The triangular spots on the posterior surface of the 
median segment are usually united with the fascia above them; the 
anterior branches of the horseshoe on the first tergite are extended 
downward on the anterior surface of the segment; there is a black 
stripe above on all femora and also on all tibiae; there is a line below 
on middle femora and also on middle and anterior tibiae; and the 
black spots on the mesosternum are quite small. The ultimate 
sternite is black and faintly carinate medially; the ultimate tergite 
bears a pair of lateral yellow spots and is closely and regularly 
punctured, showing a slightly rugose appearance and a fairly well- 
marked longitudinal median ridge. 

In both sexes the discal marks on the scutum are more or less 
rufous, and the legs are a deeper yellow than the markings of the body. 
The wings are hyaline and the veins brownish black. The pubescence 
is short, rather sparse and inconspicuous except on the vertex and on 
under parts of the thorax. There is but little variation in the mark- 
ings. 


20 - PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL, 52. 


Length.—22-24 mm. 

This is one of the commonest of tropical species and has been 
reported from Mexico, West Indies, and as far south as the Argentine 
Republic. Fox in his Synopsis of the Bembicini of Boreal North 
America reports a single specimen from California, taken by D. W. 
Coquillett. I have before me from Mexico and the West Indies 9 
males and 13 females. 


STICTIA CAROLINA Fabricius. 
Figs. 2, 36, 37, 40, 41, 42, 44. 


Bembex carolina Fasricius, Ent. Syst., vol. 2, 1793, p. 249. 

Monedula carolina LatREILLE, Hist. Nat., vol. 18, 1805, p. 302, pl. 102, fig. 3. 

Monedula carolina LerELEeTIER, Hist. Nat. Hym., vol. 3, 1845, p. 281. 

Monedula carolina Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. Cl., 
vol. 99, 1890, p. 110. 


Male.—Black: Lateral stripes on labrum, pair of lateral spots and 
median stripe on clypeus usually contiguous, spots between antennae, 
base of mandibles, scape below, anterior and narrow posterior orbits 
both shortened above, white or greenish yellow. Fasciae of first tergite 
broad laterally, acutely narrowed, and rather widely interrupted 
medially; second, broad laterally, somewhat less widely interrupted 
medially, roundly emarginate on either side of the midline with 
anterior margin curved forward medially; third usually broken into 
four spots, sometimes only two; small lateral spots occasionally on 
tergites four and five, lateral spots on seventh usually connected on 
midline, lateral spots on sternites 2-3 and occasionally on 4, tarsi 
above more or less, light creamy or faintly greenish yellow. 'Tibiae 
except a broad stripe on inner surface of posterior pair, distal extremi- 
ties of femora, orange-yellow. 

When seen from above the ultimate segment of the flagellum is 
roundly pointed at the apex, and segments 6-11 on their posterior sur- 
faces show more or less well-marked prominences. Segments 6-12 
bear pits on their posterior surfaces most conspicuous on segment 6. 
There is a conspicuous tooth on the underside of the apical end of the 
middle femora, which, when the legs are folded, is covered by a dila- 
tion on the posterior side of the base of the metatarsus. There is a 
trace of a median carina on the second sternite, and on tergite 6 
there is a small, weakly developed median tubercle, behind which 
there is a transverse area more finely sculptured than the surrounding 
surface. The ultimate tergite is notched at the tip and each lateral 
angle is produced into a broad truncated spine. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except tips, clypeus except 
usually a pair of black spots basally variable in size, pair of spots 
continuous with the apical border of frons, scape below; anterior and 
narrow posterior orbits; broken line on posterior border of pronotum; 


No.2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 21 


tubercles, spot on mesopleura posterior to tubercles, pair of small 
lateral spots on scutellum, sometimes wanting; spot on lateral angles 
of median segment, fascia on first tergite broad, interrupted and 
deeply emarginate medially, second interrupted medially and emar- 
ginate on either side of the midline anteriorly, third broken into four 
spots, fourth and fifth reduced to lateral spots; lateral spots on stern- 
ites 2-4, sometimes 2-5, femora distally; tibiae except more or less of 
posterior surfaces, tarsi, yellow or pale greenish yellow. 

Length.—24-28 mm. 

This handsome insect is our largest representative of the Bem- 
bicint. The variation in the markings is not wide but is more preva- 
lent in the male than in the female. The distribution of the light 
and dark areas on the labrum and clypeus of the male differs with 
almost every individual, the prevailing pattern being set forth in the 
description above. The shade of the color of the markings is quite 
varied on the male, less so on the female. The wings are slightly 
infumated. The coxae, trochanters, and femora, except more or less 
of the apical ends, are black; the tribiae and tarsi are yellow, with more 
or less black below; the apical segment of the tarsi is somewhat dilated 
and in the male is mostly black. The pubescence is nowhere con- 
spicuous except on the vertex, and the sculpturing on the body is 
fine and close. The labium in both sexes is covered with coarse, 
shallow, scattered punctures, and the apical portion of the ultimate 
tergite of the male is quite similarly punctured. The ultimate tergite 
of the female is densely and rather coarsely punctured and the apical 
portion appears somewhat rugose. 

Hatitat.—Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, 
New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Illinois. 

Number of specimens examined—males, 26; females, 19. 


STICTIELLA, new genus. 
Monedula Hanvutrscu and Authors (part). 


Type of the genus.— Monedula formosa Cresson. 

The species belonging to this genus are on the whole more slender 
than those of the genera Stictia and Bembiz, resembling more closely 
those of the genus Stenioha. In length they vary from 10 to 20 milli- 
-meters. The head when viewed from in front is broader than long. 
In the majority of species it is about as broad as the thorax; in a few, 
however, it is distinctly narrower than the thorax. The compound 
eyes are large, strongly arched and naked. The facets near the inner 
border are very slightly larger than those on the outer. The inner 
margins of the eyes are usually subparallel, occasionally divergent 
at the vertex. The lower margin reaches the base of the mandible. 
The precipitous posterior surface of the head is concave and the 


PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


temples are narrow. The ocellar cicatrices are circular or nearly so 
and are sunk in pits, the anterior one having a conspicuous elevation 
round about it. 

The outer border of the mandible is entire, the inner is provided 
with one or two teeth and the apex is simple. The labrum is longer 
than broad at the base, not strongly arched, roundly truncate at the 
apex, but not emarginate. The maxillae are well developed, rela- 
tively as long as in the genus Sticiza, half conical in shape and forming 
a tube enclosing the tongue which is strongly divided at the apex. 
The maxillary palpi are composed of six segments and the labial of 
four. The clypeus is much broader than long, and very slightly 
arched. There is no proximal median carina and no distal flattened 
median area. ‘The distal border is curved. The antennae are inserted 
on the frons quite close to the clypeus and their insertions divide the 
distance between the compound eyes into three equal parts. In the 
male the antenna consists of thirteen segments, in the female of 
twelve. The flagellum of the male seldom shows conspicuous sec- 
ondary sexual modifications, and consequently is of little use in the 
separation of species. 

The dorsum of the thorax is relatively flat, but the posterior border 
of the prothorax is much below the level of the scutum, and the 
tubercles do not reach the tegulae. The suture between the sternum 
and the episternum of the mesothorax is obliterated. The median 
segment is short, its lateral angles are rounded, and its posterior sur- 
face nearly vertical and flat. The dorsal middle-field is clearly 
defined and is broadly continued on the posterior surface. 

The wings are usually clear, rarely somewhat infumated. The 
radial cell at its distal end is narrowed and rounded and lies on the 
costal border of the wing. The first cubital cell in length exceeds the 
second and third combined. The first cubital cross vein is usually 
straight, in some species slightly bent near its junction with the 
cubitus but never so strongly as in the case of Stectia or Bembiz. 
In many species the second cubital cell is about as wide on the radial 
as it is on the cubitus, but in others this cell is decidedly narrowed on 
the radial. It receives both discoidal cross veins. The third cubital 
cross vein is strongly bent outward, but its form and consequently 
the form of the third cubital cell vary somewhat in the different 
species. This cell extends as far toward the distal end of the wing 
as the distal end of the radial cell, and the angle formed by the radial 
and third cubital cross veins and opening outward is acute. The first 
submedian cell is longer than the second, which increases in breadth 
toward its distal end. The basal vein arises a short distance proxi- 
mal to the distal end of the submedian cell. 

On the hind wing the retinaculum, consisting of an unbroken row 
of hooklets, begins a short distance proximal to the origin of the 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 23 


radial vein, which extends almost to the apical border of the wing. 
The median cell is long and distally bears two longitudinal veins 
(prolongations of the cubitus and radial) extending to near the border 
of the wing. The cubital vein arises at some distance from the sub- 
median cell. The posterior angle of this cell, formed by the junction 
of the submedian and submedian cross veins is obtuse. The legs are 
relatively long and slender and, as in related genera, the middle coxae 
are not contiguous. In the female the combs of the anterior tarsi 
are strongly developed; in the males they are weakly developed or 
lacking. In the case of the male of many species the middle femora 
are serrate, dentate or emarginate. Likewise the middle metatarsus 
may be curved, in which case the inner curved surface may or may 
not bear a number of spines. In many species the tarsal segments 
especially the ultimate segments are more or less dilated and flat- 
tened. The tarsal claws are long, slender, and simple, but in one 
species those of the first pair of legs are modified and are not sym- 
metrical. In many species the pulvilli are large and conspicuous; 
in others, much reduced or lacking. In one species the hind femora 
are emarginate. 

The male genital armature consists of a basal piece (cardo), which 
bears the lateral stipites, the median spatha below which lie the sag- 
ittae. The stipites are large, more or less strongly chitinized, variable 
in form but never similar in general outline to those of Strctia. The 
median spatha is deeply cleft at the distal end, the two parts strongly 
chitinized, rounded and curved downward. At some distance from 
the distal end of the spatha on either side there is a short projection, 
like the barb of an arrow, somewhat similar to that found in the case 
of Bembiz. As in related genera the sagitta is divided near its base 
into two parts. The inner division is strongly chitinized, rounded, 
curved and usually ends in a sort of hook. In the exserted genitalia 
the inner divisions of the two sagittae lie side by side directly below 
thespatha. The outer division of the sagitta is the shorter of the two, 
less strongly chitinized and usually somewhat hirsute. 


KEY TO SPECIES, 


Males. 

1. Medial metatarsus more or less strongly curved; inner curved surface frequently 

beset mite several spinéa) ulin. used. old on. sc ceals sieds sae ses See 2. 
iy Medishmertarsis Not Curved. . 0... --'. 2ctea Le, So 12. 
2. Second sternite nontuberculate . LiLpsrsoubuideeseuwedh eae is ia os aes Tae 3. 
2. Second sternite unituberculate - 344 dee adie deeteds Wessel a Se a 
2... Second steraite bituberculate).’ . . = -[2 5444/7. V2 os dseeiaes Hide oss. eae 8. 
3. Medial femora amooth beneath... ...-. 0... -4.4.+5--s20es05--e2-200- pictifrons. 
3. Medial femora serrate or dentate beneath .......---.-------------++-+-+-+-+---- 4, 
4. Pulvilli large and distinct; apical segment af all tarsi black; those of the anterior 

pair disaasend flattened: ..). 2-4. 248. s/s Pesce ea ga Sask SIGE formosa. 


@)Pulvilli indistinct tarei nétmal lice ceeieged Lito sp leive.. 5. 


94 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL, 52. 
5. Scutum with discal marks; abdominal fasciae all continuous... --. - melanosterna. 
5. Scutum without discal marks; no continuous fasciae on venter of abdomen.....- 6. 
6. Wings distinctly infumated; lateral ventral spots on abdomen not confined to 

BECYOALES 2 BEL Bee ee ce eee apecr i wee Uae e clad = ee me  c ce a serrata. 
6. Wings hyaline; lateral ventral spots on abdomen lacking or confined to sternites 
PANGS 1. os. oak a sees Mela oe ee RRS kee Pee es ci ae plana. 
7. Apical segment of fore tarsus broadly dilated and black; process on second sternite 
bluntiand stromely hiraute distally: s:.0,2- 2-2. - i ~~ pide fee or ee tuberculata. 
7. Apical segment of fore tarsus normal and yellow; process on second sternite pointed 
ST BINGO CIStALLY 2/2. 's ais win oe aia sirie eles mec mie ce eines ele eee ae nn callista. 
8. Medial femora smooth; head narrower than thorax ...........--------------9. 
8. Medial femora dentate or serrate below; head normal .....-----.------------ 10. 
9. Width of the second cubital cell on the radial vein and on the cubital about equal; 
second sternite almost wholly yellow -------- rat opi hai pa pale, Be bituberculata. 
9. Width of the second cubital cell on the radial vein about half its width on the 
cubital’ second’ sternite mostly black <..-0 00. 2020 ke kee ame = ole emarginata. 

10. Pulvilli indistinct; apical segment of tarsi normal.............----- pulchella. 

10. Pulvilli distinct; apical segment of tarsi black; anterior pair dilated ........- aka 

11. Large and stout, 18-20 mm; fasciae on tergites broad and except first continuous; 

second inclosing pair of black medial spots; fasciae on sternites 1-5 continuous 
OE MPST EDU. TA LCTEUD LEG so oon ole oe ihe ae ao pee eR ok ole speciosa. 
11. Slender, about 15 mm; fasciae on tergites interrupted on 1 or on 1-3, leaving on 
one or more of these tergites a pair of yellow medial spots; yellow on sternites 
in the fom) ob laterakeppts sy -/):tesieldeees SELLS cei ee <2 melampous. 
12. Head, thorax, base of abdomen and basal joints of legs covered with long, white, 
dense pubescence; most specimens but not all have the second sternite bitu- 
| TET, TLE PRI a MAE PEM) Si PSN Ee IS SACS SSP villosa. 

12. Pubescence of head, thorax, etc. of normal character .......-----..--------- TS: 

i USecond stermmite nontuberculate 24/0260. 22. Pek a 2G tenuicornis. 

12 Second sternite unituberculate </9es)-\cklds Sew sg hiss ee. te sceeeiee ee megacera. 

13) Second sternite bituberculate 220 vc cee eee sede dete nh dean begs bees e 14, 

14. Medial femora of normal form, not emarginate ........-..------------------16. 

14. Medial femora more or less strongly emarginate sa eeetitaoe Bile ake ee 16. 

1 cute witha pair ot larce ‘diseal marly. oso. cine ee os oli exigua. 

1eGeeitum wathout' diseal markets) oe Pah ee ea ae pulla. 

16. Scape black above; mesosternum marked with black; genital stipes as in fig 

51 ROR NESE) SOS OO RC RINE CISUBE NE MOT CI RTOS eeeini ee ORCay ar Ba, Seeman Aone ger JSemorata. 

16. Scape entirely yellow; mesosternum yellow; genital stipes as in fig. 79. .divergens. 

Females. 

slag. Evil ig Lb Lis 05106) eg ae naagOn ele CyB ot are Mm pan lupe: lates Sin SPY MAR 6c 2 
Paya rndistinet: USP eset ole ae a i WM RG i Be 13; 
2 (Beutum: without discal markings 2 ).0o otek bot eee See eee a 
2. Scutum with discal marks more or less well developed .--.-.---------------- 5. 
3. Head narrower than thorax; width of second cubital cell on the radial vein about 

haliitewidth on the cubital vein... 25.02. S20 PS Soo Aen eee emarginata, 
3. Head normal, wide as thorax; second cubital cell normal .....-...-.---------- 4, 
4. Spots on scutellum rectangular; spots on either side anterior ocellus...... pulla. 
4, Spots on scutellum triangular; V-shaped spot inclosing anterior ocellus.megacera. 
5. Discal marks consisting of a pair of irregular spots, or of lines not broken, not 

curved inward or approximated posteriorly ....-....--2-2-.+--2.--00-25--- 6. 
5. Discal marks in form of a U, either unbroken, interrupted medially, or broken 

into lines and spots Seca ae RU Se Ts ENR Tee) a ta “ 
6. Scutellum with pair of large rectangular lateral spots ......--.------------ pulla. 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 25 


6. Scutellum with a continuous fascia, rarely narrowly interrupted on the median 


iB 


ii 
8. 


UTM EE ROR SEARS ur GP 2a BE A pictifrons. 
Second sternite more or less black; its lateral yellow spots sometimes connected 
SME Cows stp ana decane ed ae eae oe came m is Sots Skee 8. 
Pocond mieraice wholly yellow . 8525. 202222 OC La i cle 10. 
Species small, 10-12 mm.; discul marks narrow and broken; fasciae on tergites 
rather narrow, wavy, scarcely to be considered emarginate .-........ femorata. 

. Species larger, 16-20 mm. ; discal marks two broad lines curved and approximated 
posteriorly; fasciae on ees broad and emarginated anteriorly............ 9. 

. Tergites without posterior black border; posterior tarsi save basal joint dusky 
HOG Ras ok oe pus EST ee NN RL PRES Re speciosa, 

. Tergites with a posterior black border; posterior tarsi yellow...........- formosa. 
rere Clary 1-20) MY sos Baie Sed sa dg Slee Lie Leh ae ah Gi aint Uta abe tk 
UR OCTCIEMMM EDIE i a a el be Uk ee a Mee ae Sheila we Dae 12, 
. Scape yellow; black spot on mesosternum near middle coxae....... tenwicornis. 
. Scape with black spot above: mesosternum yellow...........-..-- bituberculata. 


. Fascia of first tergite inclosing a medial black spot basally; head, thorax and base 


of abdomen sparsely covered with long white pubescence, most evident on 


lateral angles, of median segment. ........0.-- 25 een. ose eens ne teee de scitula. 
. Fascia of first tergite without medial black spot; not pubescent as above; face and 
sides onfmorx.more or less silvery.....----.-45---24252+-s00ces-spene exigua. 
P PCUtum wanOUL Giseal Markings .2'2" S02. Sao. OL Se ae 14. 
F DeUeusny wei Ciscnl Thaweings) 2S ee OL a aT A 15. 
. Mesopleura immaculate; fascia of first tergite interrupted widely ......... serrata. 


. Mesopleura with large yellow spot; fasciae on tergites all continuous.... pulchella. 
. Discal marks on scutum small; mesopleura black, rarely with small maculations; 


vyenteriot abdomen almost entirely black. .........--.--222 0.-cqaceee ease 16. 
. Discal marks on scutum conspicuous; mesopleura yellow; venter of abdomen 

mieveaurely yellow. 31.0082. Ss0S DN Ok ses LP ih 
. Wings infumated; fascia of first tergite widely interrupted and yellow... serrata. 
. Wings hyaline; fascia on first tergite narrowly interrupted and white...... plana. 
. Species large, 18-20 mm.; no black on mesosternum............--..----- callista. 
. Species smaller, 12-14 mm.; black spot, variable in size, in front and slightly 


ROOVE ME MNIETIG COMM. lo A RS SO OME PS melanosterna. 
STICTIELLA PICTIFRONS Smith. 
Figs. 45, 46, 80, 96. 


Monedula pictifrons Smrru, Cat. Hym. Brit. Mus., vol. 4, 1856, p. 335, female. 

Monedula inermis Hanpuirscu, Sitz. Acad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. Cl., 
vol. 99, 1890, p. 144, male. 

Monedula denverensis! CAMERON, Trans. faded Ent. Soc., vol. 34, 1908, p. 235, 
female. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, mandibles except apices, scape, 


basal segments of flagellum below, lower part of frons extended 
upward between antennae, semicircular spot before anterior ocellus, 
sometimes connected with the yellow of the frons below, broad ante- 
rior orbits, posterior orbits broad below, posterior border of pronotum 
connected on tubercles with large spot on sides of prothorax, spot 


1 Mr. Rowland E. Turner has written Mr. Rohwer as follows: “TI had placed the types of denverensis Cam. 
and pictifrons Sm. together. They are certainly the same species although the carina of the anterior ocellus 
is more clearly defined in denverensis giving the depression a deeper appearance. The shape of the second 
cubital cell is the same.’’ 


26 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


on tegulae, short lateral lines above tegulae on scutum, lateral spots 
on scutellum narrowed and approximated medially, fascia on metano- 
tum, curved fascia on median segment above, narrow laterally and 
broad on posterior surface, where it may be interrruped medially, 
lateral angles of median segment, sides of same almost entirely, 
large spots on metapleurae, large spot covering almost the entire 
mesopleurae and continuous with the yellow on mesosternum inclos- 
ing a black spot in front of middle coxae, fascia on first tergite broad 
laterally, widely and deeply emarginate on anterior middle, the 
emargination usually extended back from its lateral angles to meet 
the posterior black border thus inclosing a median bilobed yellow 
spot, the remaining fasciae of similar pattern, second about as broad 
as first, others narrower, medial emargination shallower and not 
extended backward to meet the posterior black border of the seg- 
ment, sixth fascia sometimes broken into three spots, apex of ulti- 
mate tergite, first sternite except lateral basal spots, second except 
basal border, broad fasciae on third and fourth and narrower ones on 
fifth and sixth on some specimens, on others large connected lateral 
spots on third and fourth and disconnected lateral spots on fifth and 
sixth, coxae, trochanters except spot above, femora except stripe 
above, tibiae except sometimes a minute stripe on posterior pair 
above, tarsi except more or less above, pale yellow or yellowish white. 

The yellow is brightest on the legs, sides of thorax, and the under 
sides of the abdomen. The under surface of the flagellum gradually 
changes from yellow to testaceous toward the apex, where the ulti- 
mate segment is slightly flattened and curved. The anterior tarsi 
are conspicuously flattened and bear a moderately well-developed 
tarsal comb, and segments three and four bear well-developed pos- 
terior apical processes that are invariably black and are character- 
istic of this species. The middle and posterior tarsi are less evi- 
dently flattened, but segments 3 and 4, and 5 basally, are black 
above. A male from Arizona shows the black marks only on the 
anterior tarsi. ‘The middle femora are smooth and the middle meta- 
tarsus is curved, but is without spines on curved surface. The 
second sternite is without process of any kind and the eighth bears 
a discal spine. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, mandibles except apices, scape, 
flagellum basally below, frons below, large spot inclosing anterior 
ocellus frequently united with yellow on lower part of frons, broad 
anterior orbits, posterior orbits broad below and frequently contin- 
ued across the posterior border of vertex, posterior border of prono- 
tum and sides of prothorax except spot in front of tubercles, spot on 
tegulae, lateral les and pair of large discal marks anteriorly on 
scutum, fascia on scutellum narrowed, sometimes interrupted medi- 
ally, fascia on metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median seg- 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 27 


ment continued medially downward on its posterior surface, sides of 
median segment entirely or in part, lateral angles of same, meta- 
pleurae, mesopleurae, and mesosternum almost entirely, broad fasciae 
on tergites 1-5, the first broadly and squarely emarginate anteriorly 
in the middle, sometimes cut through leaving a medial spot as in the 
male, second with medial emargination usually narrow and much 
prolonged posteriorly to right and left, third to fifth with more shal- 
low emarginations, which have their posterior middle notched with 
yellow, apex of ultimate tergite, first sternite entirely, fasciae on 2-5 
broadest on two and narrowest on five, apex of ultimate sternite, legs 
except spot on coxae, trochanters, and femora, above and rarely spot 
on tibiae above, and tarsi, lemon yellow, the color somewhat deeper 
on the legs than elsewhere. 

Length.—12-15 mm. 

The flagellum below varies from yellow to testaceous, and above 
from testaceous to black. In most specimens the mesopleurae and 
mesosternum are wholly yellow; on a few the mesosternum is more 
or less black, and on two it is entirely black. The second and third 
sternites may be entirely yellow or may show more or less of a black 
basal border. 

In both sexes the wings are hyaline and the veins fuscous. The 
pubescence is short, sparse, and not conspicuous. On the male the 
markings are lighter than on the female and are not so extensively 
developed. The fasciae on the tergites are narrower on the male 
than on the female, and the emarginations are broader and apparently 
deeper. On one male from Kansas all the tergal fasciae are contin- 
uous, and below the yellow color is as extensive as on the brightest 
of the females. This species is remarkable in the superficial resem- 
blance of the female to Steniola duplicata Provancher. 

Habitat.—Virginia, North Carolina, Missouri, Kansas, Texas, New 
Mexico, Arizona, and Lower California (Handlirsch). 

Number of specimens examined.—Males, 5; females, 15. 


STICTIELLA FORMOSA Cresson. 
Figs. 47, 48, 81, 97, 98. 


Monedula formosa Cresson, Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 4, 1872, p. 221, female, 
male. 

Monedula speciosa Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wiens Math.-Nat. CL., 
vol. 99, 1890, p. 140, male, female. 

? Monedula speciosa Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 366. 

Monedula speciosa Ciaow. Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 34, 1908, p. 236, male, 


Male.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, mandibles except apices, scape, 
first and second flagellar segments below, entire frons except pit of 
anterior ocellus and pair of spatulate lines that run downward and 
inward from the vertex and are narrowly separated below the ante- 


28 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


rior ocellus, posterior orbits broad below, narrow above, and may be 
prolonged on the posterior edge of the vertex, prothorax except a 
broad anterior dorsal spot undulate on its posterior border, which 
may be extended laterally almost to the tubercles or interrupted, 
leaving a pair of lateral spots, tegulae in large part, lateral lines on 
scutum forming with the curved fascia on the scuttellum a continu- 
ous curved line, fascia on metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of 
median segment produced on the posterior surface and narrowly 
interrupted medially, lateral angles broadly and sides of median 
segment, mesopleurae except curved line back of tubercles and spot 
in front of middle coxae, large spot on metapleurae, fascia on first 
tergite interrupted medially, its anterior border deeply, broadly 
emarginate medially and extended forward at the extreme sides, 
posterior border with a broad shallow emargination on either side of 
the midline, second fascia of similar pattern except that the anterior 
medial emargination is extended slightly to the right and left at the 
posterior angles, and the anterior lateral prolongation is divided 
showing a lateral black spot, third fascia similar to second except 
that the median emargination is wider and shallower and the anterior 
lateral prolongation is interrupted, showing a lateral yellow spot, 
remaining fascia similar in pattern, but much reduced and modified, 
apex of seventh tergite, first sternite entirely or nearly so, large lateral 
spots on second, successively smaller lateral spots on sternites 3-5, 
coxae, trochanters except spot at base, femora except stripe above, 
tibiae except more or less of lower surface, tarsi except apical seg- 
ments, yellow. 

The flagellum is light below and beyond the second segment is of a 
ferruginous cast. Viewed from above it gradually increases in width 
from the base to the fourth segment, whence it gradually decreases 
toward the apex, and segments 3-10 appear very slightly carinate 
posteriorly, due to specialized areas on the posterior surface. The 
apical segment of the tarsi is black, dilated, and flattened. This is 
remarkably so of the anterior pair on which the claws are developed 
in a fashion peculiar to this species. On the middle and posterior 
tarsi the apical segment is not so greatly dilated and the claws are of 
the normal form. The middle femora are dentate on the posterior 
side; the middle tibiae are club-shaped, being dilated apically (fig. 97), 
and bear on the apex anteriorly a short, blunt, reddish spine. The 
middle metatarsus is strongly curved on the inner side, on which, 
near the base, it bears a number of spines, the most basal one being 
smallest. The second sternite is plain, without trace of carina or 
tubercle; the eighth ends in three spines. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, frons 
except a pair of broad spatulate lines running from the vertex down- 
ward and inward, broadly united on the middle of the face and enclos- 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 29 


ing a Y-shaped spot below the anterior ocellus, scape and first seg- 
ment of flagellum, second below, posterior orbits broad below and 
continued across the posterior border of the vertex, prothorax except 
a broad anterior dorsal spot undulate on posterior margin, tubercles, 
tegulae, U-shaped discal mark on scutum interrupted at posterior 
middle, broad lateral lines on scutum continuous with the broad 
curved fascia on scutellum, metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum 
of median segment, sides of same continued over lateral angles onto 
posterior surface, mesopleurae except curved spot behind tubercles 
and large spot in front of middle coxae and separated from its fellow 
by a broad median line on mesosternum, metapleurae, fasciae on ter- 
gites, all continuous and fashioned like those of the male, but lacking 
the lateral black spot on second and yellow spot on third, apex of 
ultimate tergite, first sternite except lateral spots, triangular spots 
on posterior lateral angles of sternites 2-5 successively smaller, 
apical edges of ultimate sternite, coxae, trochanters except spot above, 
tibiae except spot below, smallest or wanting on posterior pair, and 
tarsi, yellow. The posterior border of the middle femora is curved 
so that when seen from below the segment appears much wider in 
the middle than at either end. The middle tibiae are somewhat 
dilated apically, but much less so than in the male. 

Length.—17-20 mm. 

The wings in both sexes are hyaline, relatively short, and the veins 
are brown. The legs are strong and the tibiae and tarsi very spiny. 
The tarsal combs are strongly developed in the female but are practi- 
cally wanting in the male. The pubescence is white, short, sparse, 
and inconspicuous even on the male. The color of the markings is a 
lemon yellow lighter on the head and abdomen than on the thorax 
and darker on the legs. The labrum, the apical half of the clypeus 
and the anterior orbits of the female are very light, almost white on 
one specimen. ‘The lateral spots on the sternites may or may not be 
connected apically by narrow lines. One male is smaller and more 
slender than the other two; the thorax and median segment are im- 
maculate above except for narrow broken line on scutellum; the 
extent of the yellow on sides of prothorax and sides of thorax and 
median segment is greatly reduced. The fasciae on the first three 
tergites are widely interrupted, leaving a pair of medial spots on two 
and three; the remaining three are more or less completely interrupted 
on either side the midline, leaving a median spot. Structurally it 
shows no variation whatever. Judging from Cameron’s description 
of the male he referred to speciosa, his specimen must have been very 
similar to this one. 

Handlirsch considered this species identical with speciosa Cresson 
and accordingly placed it as a synonym under that species. As far 
as I can discover it has been so regarded by others since that time, but 


380 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


the specimens before me make it necessary to restore the species. 
Cresson’s type of speciosa, a female, came from Colorado and his type 
of formosa from Texas. Both Handlirsch’s and Cameron’s specimens 
were all from Texas, and the descriptions indicate that they belong to 
Cresson’s formosa. I have before me females from Colorado, Texas, 
and Kansas and males from New Mexico and Texas. The males 
from these two localities are structurally distinct as well as differently 
maculated, and those from New Mexico are so nearly like the female 
from Colorado in color and general appearance as to warrant, in my 
opinion, the assumption that they are sexes of the same species. 
Aside from the fact that the males in question are positively distinct, 
the color of the females and the pattern of their abdominal fasciae are 
sufficiently unlike to justify the contention that they belong to dif- 
ferent species. 

Halhitat.—Texas, Kansas. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 5; females, 4. 


STICTIELLA MELANOSTERNA, new species. 
Figs. 49, 50, 82, 99. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except 
narrow basal border, lower part of frons, irregular V-shaped spot 
inclosing anterior ocellus, anterior orbits irregularly notched and 
reduced to a very narrow line above, comparatively broad posterior 
orbits extended for some distance on the posterior border of the ver- 
tex, prothorax except a median anterior dorsal spot, and a dusky spot 
anterior to tubercles, tegulae, broad lateral lines and a broken U- 
shaped discal spot on scutum, broad fascia on scutellum narrower 
medially, metanotum, broad curved fascia on dorsum of median 
segment extended in a pair of triangular points on its posterior sur- 
face, lateral angles including much of the posterior surface and all the 
sides of the median segment, metapleurae, mesopleurae, and mesos- 
ternum except a pair of large black spots in front of the middle coxae, 
broad fasciae on tergites 1-6, the first roundly or somewhat trian- 
gularly emarginate on its anterior middle and slightly biemarginate 
on its posterior border, second with anterior medial emargination 
somewhat extended at its posterior lateral angles and notched with 
yellow on the middle of its posterior border; the remaining fasciae 
with four anterior emarginations, the middle pair somewhat the 
larger and deeper, apex of ultimate tergite, broad continuous fasciae 
on all sternites, coxae except basal spot below, trochanters except 
more or less black above, femora except broad stripe on anterior pair 
above, tibiae, and tarsi, bright lemon yellow. 

The ultimate segment of the antennae is curved and segments 5-11 
are faintly carinate on the posterior surface. ‘The middle femora are 
slightly angulated below near the base, and from this point to the 
apex extends a row of short stout spines. The middle metatarsi are 


no. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 31 


curved on the inner side and basally bear a group of spines, the more 
apical two being large and conspicuous. At the apical end of the 
curved surface are several smaller spines. The second sternite is plain 
and the eighth lacks a discal spine. Genital stipes as in figure 50. 

Female.—The female is so similar to the male in color and macula- 
tions that a separate description is unnecessary. The following 
differences, however, are noted: Black basal border of clypeus is lack- 
ing; anterior orbits are broader; posterior orbits are connected across 
vertex; the U-shaped discal mark is usually interrupted on posterior 
middle; black spot anterior to middle coxae is quite small; lateral 
emarginations on anterior of fasciae on tergites 2-5 shallow and 
usually covered by the segment preceding; black on coxae wanting 
and reduced on trochanters; black stripe on all femora above; ulti- 
mate sternite yellow. A female from Arizona has the yellow much 
more extensive; the black spots on the sternum are reduced to mere 
points, the U on the scutum is broad and continuous, and the legs and 
sternites are wholly yellow. 

In both sexes the flagellum is fulvous or yellowish-fulvous below, 
darkening toward the apex. The pubescence is short, sparse, and 
inconspicuous and the punctation is of the usual character. The 
tarsal combs are strongly developed on female; weakly on the male. 
On both sexes the pulvilli are indistinct. 

Length —11-14 mm. 

This species is characterized by its indistinct pulvilli, broad fasciae 
on tergites, yellow sides of thorax and median segment, and small 
size. It is described from six males and seven females. Of the 
females five are from New Mexico, one from Arizona, and one from 
Utah; the males are all from New Mexico. 

Type.—Male. Cat. No. 19803 U.S.N.M. 


STICTIELLA SERRATA Handlirsch. 
Figs. 51, 52, 83, 100. 
Monedula serrata Hanpuirscn, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. Cl., 
vol. 99, 1890, p. 143, male. 
Monedula serrata Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 366. 
Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except 
very narrow basal border, spot between antennae, small spot before 
anterior ocellus, scape, broad anterior orbits, posterior orbits, posterior 
dorsal border of pronotum, tubercles continuous with spot on sides of 
prothorax, spot on tegulae, feebly marked lateral spot above tegulae 
onscutum, large lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, nar- 
row border of mesosternum reaching upward to tubercles, fascia on 
first tergite reduced to widely separated rectangular lateral spots, re- 
maining fascia narrowly interrupted medially, that on second tergite 
broadest and deeply and widely emarginate on anterior middle, those 
on 3-6 much narrower and slightly emarginate anteriorly on either side 


32 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


the mid line, posterior lateral spots on sternites 2-6, which on some 
segments may be connected by an apical line, coxae and trochanters 
more or less, femora except stripe above on anterior and middle pairs 
and above and below on posterior pair, tibiae except stripe on anterior 
pair below, and tarsi, yellow. The antennae are slightly carinate pos- 
teriorly and the apical segment is curved. The middle femora are 
dentate below and the middle metatarsi are curved on the inner side, 
the curved surface bearing basally several rather large spmes. The 
second sternite is plain and the eighth is without a discal spine. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, lower half of 
clypeus, lower part of frons, spot before anterior ocellus, scape except 
a dusky spot above on some specimens, broad anterior orbits, pos- 
terior orbits, posterior dorsal border of pronotum, spot or line on 
sides of prothorax united with tubercles, spot on tegulae, short lateral 
lines on scutum above tegulae, large lateral spots on scutellum, fascia 
on metanotum, spot near lateral angles and another below the spiracle 
on median segment, fasciae on tergites 1-5 similar in all respects to 
those of the male except that some or all (except the first) may be 
continuous, posterior lateral spots on sternites 2-5, spot on anterior 
and middle coxae below, trochanters apically above, anterior and 
posterior borders of femora shortened basally on posterior pair, 
tibiae except more or less prominent dusky line below and usually 
also above on anterior pair, and tarsi, yellow. The apical sternite is 
black and the legs, especially the tarsi, are tinged with ferruginous. 

Length.—11-13 mm. 

In both sexes the flagellum is lighter below than above, especially 
the basal segments, and in the female, and slightly-also in the male, 
is more or less tinged with ferruginous. The wings are somewhat 
strongly infumated, nearly as much so as those of Strctia carolina. 
On the female the pubescence is short, sparse, and inconspicuous; on 
the male short, rather dense, and conspicuous on the head, thorax, and 
more apical sternites. The pulvilli are indistinct on both sexes. One 
female bears a pair of discal marks on the scutum, and a male from 
Wisconsin has the fasciae on the tergites almost white. 

Habitat.—F lorida, Georgia, North Carolina, Wisconsin. 

Number of specimens examined—males, 4; females, 5. 


STICTIELLA PLANA Fox. 
Figs. 53, 84. 
Monedula plana Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 367, male. 
Monedula usitata Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 371, female. 
Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons, scape below, spot in front of anterior ocellus, broad 
anterior orbits, posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum, tuber- 
cles, large spot on sides of prothorax, anterior part of tegulae, small 
lateral spot on scutum above tegulae, large lateral spots on scutel- 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. Be 


lum approximated medially, fascia on metanotum, small oblique 
spots on dorsum of median segment, the lateral angles more or less 
and spot on sides of median segment, all absent on the type specimen, 
narrow vertical line on anterior border of mesopleurae, fascia on first 
tergite broad laterally, interrupted and narrowed to a point medially, 
fasciae on tergites 2-5 narrowly interrupted medially or continuous, 
with broad, shallow, anterior, medial emargination deepest on tergite 
2, on which the fascia is the broadest, fascia on tergite 6 broken or 
complete, lateral spots on ultimate tergite, lateral spots on sternites 
2 and 3, which may be absent, spot below on anterior and middle 
coxae, anterior and middle trochanters apically, anterior and middle 
femora except stripe above, posterior femora distally, tibiae except 
spot below on anterior pair, and tarsi, greenish yellow or yellowish- 
white. The apical segment of the flagellum is curved; the middle 
femora bear below a number of spines; the middle metatarsi are 
slightly curved on the inner side, which basally bears a row of four 
rather stout spines and apically a few very short ones. The second 
sternite is plain and the eighth is without a discal spine. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, lower border 
of clypeus, scape below, space between antennae, spot below anterior 
ocellus, broad anterior orbits, narrow posterior orbits, line, sometimes 
broken, on posterior dorsal border of pronotum, tubercles and line 
leading downward from them, spot on tegulae, lateral spots above them 
and a pair of small discal spots on scutum, fascia on scutellum inter- 
rupted medially, short fascia on metanotum, pair of oblique lateral 
lines on dorsum of median segment, small spot on lateral angles, and 
another on sides of median segment, fascia on first tergite, interrupted 
medially and broadly emarginate on anterior middle, fascia on 2-4 
continuous, all broadly, and that on second deeply emarginate on 
anterior middle, fascia on fifth narrow and interrupted medially, 
minute lateral spots on second sternite, anterior femora below, mid- 
dle and posterior femora distally, tibiae more or less above, greenish 
yellow or yellowish white. 

In both sexes the flagellum is testaceous below, the wings hyaline, 
pulvilli indistinct, and pubescence short, sparse, and not conspicuous. 
The tarsi of the female except the anterior pair, which show some 
yellow markings, are dusky almost black in some specimens; the mid- 
dle and posterior pairs, as in the male, are very slender with all the 
segments except the ultimate one provided at their distal ends with 
long straight spines. The tarsal combs on the anterior pair are well 
developed in the female, but in the male only feebly. The claws 
are very slender and but slightly curved. 

Length.—12-14 millimeters. 

Habitat.—Kansas, South Dakota. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 2; females, 3. 

65008°—Proc.N.M.vol.52—17——3 


34 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


STICTIELLA TUBERCULATA Fox. 
Figs. 54, 55, 101, 102. 
Stictia tuberculata Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 366. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except tips, clypeus except 
marginal line at base, scape and basal flagellar segments below, space 
between antennae, pair of minute spots below anterior ocellus, anterior 
orbits, posterior orbits, line on posterior border of pronotum, sides 
of prothorax almost entirely, elongated irregular spot on mesopleurae, 
large spot on metapleurae, spots on side of median segment, short 
lateral lines on scutum above base of wings, triangular lateral spots 
on scutellum approximated medially, fascia on metanotum, oblique 
lines on dorsum of median segment and spots on its posterior sur- 
face, larger part of lateral angles of same, fascia of first tergite 
broken into pair of spots broad laterally, fasciae on remaining tergites 
continuous, broadly emarginate medially on anterior border and 
slightly sinuate laterally, ultimate tergite and sternite apically, 
broad continuous fasciae on other sternites narrowed medially, legs 
except more or less black on trochanters, black lines above on all 
femora, and black ultimate segment of tarsi, yellow. 

Length.—14 mm. 

The ultimate segment of the antenna is longer than its immediate 
predecessor, narrowed somewhat distally, rounded at the apex, and 
distinctly curved. The middle femora are serrate; the middle tibiae 
are distinctly dilated distally, resembling those of formosa in this 
respect; the middle metatarsi are curved and bear a group of spines 
near the base; and the ultimate segment of all tarsi is black and that 
of the anterior pair is distinctly dilated. The dilation of the last 
segment of the anterior tarsus is not symmetrical, being much more 
prominent on the posterior than on the anterior border of the seg- 
ment. Thesecond sternite bears a prominent median process decidedly 
hirsute in character. 

This is a well-marked and distinct species. 

Habitat.—Nevada. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 2; females, 0. 

Type.—In the collection of American Entomological Society of 
Philadelphia. 

STICTIELLA CALLISTA, new species. 
Figs. 56, 85, 103. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except 
narrow black basal border, lower part of frons prolonged upward 
between antennae and narrowly separated from a broad V-shaped spot 
enclosing the anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, scape below, 
broad posterior orbits connected across the vertex and produced 
downward on either side the mid line of the occiput, prothorax except 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 85 


median anterior dorsal spot and dusky line in front of tubercles, 
tegulae, broad lateral lines and U-shaped discal mark interrupted on 
posterior middle on scutum, broad fascia on scutellum narrower medi- 
ally, metanotum, broad curved fascia on dorsum of median segment 
produced medially in a pair of triangular points on its posterior 
surface, likewise its lateral angles broadly and sides entirely, meta- 
pleurae, mesopleurae, and mesosternum except spot in front of mid- 
dle coxae, broad fasciae on tergites, first deeply and roundly emar- 
ginate on anterior middle, and somewhat narrowed medially on pos- 
terior border and acutely notched on the midline, second with a nar- 
row transverse median spot on either side the midline, third, fourth 
and fifth each with a wide but not very deep emargination on anterior 
middle, which is squarely notched with yellow on its posterior mid- 
dle, sixth slightly biemarginate on anterior border, apex of ultimate 
tergite, sternites entirely except median anterior black spots on ster- 
nites 3-6, which are hidden when the abdomen is slightly flexed, 
coxae, trochanters except spot above, femora except stripe above, 
tibiae except spot below on anterior pair, and tarsi, bright lemon 
yellow. 

The middle femora are distinctly serrate below; the middle meta- 
tarsi are curved, and basally on the inner side bear three stout spines. 
The second sternite bears a prominent tubercle and the sixth api- 
cally on the median hne bears a distinct, somewhat triangular hump 
or elevation. The eighth below is strongly hirsute, the middle spine 
is long, stout and curved, and a discal spine is wanting. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons prolonged upward between antennae and narrowly 
separated from a broad V-shaped spot about the anterior ocellus, 
broad anterior orbits reaching almost to the posterior orbits on 
vertex, scape except apical dusky spot above, broad posterior orbits 
connected across the posterior border of vertex, prothorax except 
median anterior dorsal spot, tegulae, lateral lines and broad U- 
shaped discal mark on scutum, broad fascia on _ scutellum, 
metanotum, median segment entirely except a narrow curved black 
border adjoining metanotum and narrow black lines bordering the 
oblique sutures on dorsum and posterior surface, sides, and venter 
of mesothorax and metathorax, broad fasciae on tergites 1-5, first 
with a median anterior bilobed black spot, second with a median 
elliptical black spot on either side the midline, third, fourth, and 
fifth biemarginate on anterior middle, first to fourth slightly notched 
on posterior middle, ultimate tergite except three black emargina- 
tions at base, sternites entirely except more or less black basally 
on 4-6, legs entirely except spots on trochanters and stripes on 
femora above bright lemon yellow. 

Length.—18-20 mm. 


36 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


On both sexes the flagellum is testaceous below with the first and 
second segments yellowish. The ultimate segment is conical at the 
apex and on the male is slightly curved. The pulvilli are indistinct 
in both sexes and the pubescence is decidedly short and sparse; the 
female is almost nude. The wings are hyaline and long, the veins 
brown. On both male and female the fasciae on tergites 1-5 are 
slightly notched on posterior middle and on the males the anterior 
emargination on the third fascia may take the form of a pair of 
median spots similar to those on the preceding fascia. On some 
males the clypeus lacks the black basal border and the posterior 
orbits may not be connected across the vertex. Two females from 
Arizona (collected by F. H. Snow), which I have referred to this 
species are extremely yellow; the prothorax, sides, and venter 
of mesothorax and metathorax, median segment, first four tergites, 
and the first two sternites, are entirely yellow. It is a beautiful 
species, and owing to its large size and bright colors it is not likely 
to be confused with any species except tenuicornis, from which it 
can be readily distinguished by the absence in this species of dis- 
tinct pulvilli in both sexes, by the absence of long spines on the 
lateral areas of the ultimate tergite of the female and by the pres- 
ence of the serrate femora and curved metatarsi of the middle legs 
and the unituberculate second sternite of the male. 

Habitat.—New Mexico, Arizona. 

Number of specimens examined—males, 4; females, 3. 

Type.—Male, Cat. No. 19806, U.S.N.M. 


STICTIELLA BITUBERCULATA, new species. 
Figs. 57, 58, 86, 104. 


Monedula tenuicornis Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 369, male (not 
female). 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, lower part of frons, broad anterior orbits, broad V-shaped 
spot inclosing anterior ocellus, posterior orbits broad below but 
narrower above, a rather narrow line across the posterior border of 
pronotum, sides of prothorax except a dusky line in front of tubercles 
and a small round lateral spot above this line, tegulae, weak lateral 
lines above tegulae on scutum, lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on 
metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median segment, sides and 
lateral angles of same, metapleurae, mesopleurae almost entirely, 
mesosternum except small lateral spots in front and slightly above 
middle coxae, fasciae on tergites 1-6 are more or less perfectly 
broken into large rectangular lateral spots, and a pair of ellipsoidal 
medial posterior spots, apex of seventh tergite, sternites entirely 
except small lateral spots of first and small medial spots on 3-6, 
coxae, trochanters below, femora except broad stripe above, tibiae 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. oT 


except spot below on first pair and stripe on posterior pair, and tarsi, 
yellow or yellowish white. 

The medial spots on the tergites are decidedly white, as are also 
those on scutellum and metanotum. The clypeus is a very light 
yellow and the head is narrower than the thorax. The flagellum, 
long and slender, is tawny yellowish below, darkening toward the 
apex; segments 5-11 are faintly carinate posteriorly and the ultimate 
segment is slightly curved. The pulvilli are large and distinct, the 
middle femora smooth, and the basal half of the middle metatarsi 
is curved on its inner surface, which is not beset with spines. The 
second sternite bears two distinct, closely approximated but not 
large tubercles and the eighth bears a prominent discal spine. The 
wings are hyaline and the veins fuscous. Pubescence and puncta- 
tion are of the normal character. Genital stipes as in figure 58. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons extended upward between antennae, scape except small 
spot above, basal segments of flagellum below, V-shaped spot inclos- 
ing anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, posterior orbits broad 
below, narrower above and prolonged upon vertex, posterior dorsal 
border and sides of prothorax, lateral lines on scutum, pair of longi- 
tudinal lines and pair of approximated spots on disk of scutum, 
fascia narrowed medially on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, broad 
curved fascia on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles and sides 
of same, fasciae on tergites 1-5 similar in pattern to those of the 
male but better developed and all continuous except the first, ulti- 
mate segment both above and below except at base, second sternite, 
broad fasciae on sternites 3-4 with shallow median emarginations, 
fascia on fifth biemarginate, legs except stripe above on femora and 
below on anterior tibiae, yellow. The color is much richer than that 
on the male. The flagellum above is dark; below and at the apex 
tawny. The wings are clear, less than twice the combined length of* 
the thorax and median segment; the veins are brown. 

Length.—18 mm. 

Two males of this species before me differ greatly from the type 
in the extent of the maculations (but not at all in structure). The 
first, from the same locality as the type, is a trifle smaller; the yellow 
on the prothorax is much reduced; the dorsum of the thorax and 
middle segment is black except a pair of small lateral spots on the 
scutellum; there is an irregular line on the mesopleurae, a spot on 
the metapleurae and another on sides of median segment; the paired 
median spots on the dorsum of the abdomen are separated from 
one another and from the lateral spots on all segments except the 
sixth; and the black on the sternites and on the legs is somewhat 
more extended. In a word, the maculations on the specimen are 
reduced. 


PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


On another, a specimen from Arizona, the maculations are better 
developed than on the type; the spot inclosing the anterior ocellus 
is united with the yellow on the frons below; the posterior orbits 
extend in a broken line across the vertex; the prothorax except for 
a median anterior dorsal spot is wholly yellow; there are lateral 
yellow lines and a broken U-shaped discal mark on the scutum, a 
fascia on the scutellum, another on metanotum, and a curved fascia 
on dorsum of the median segment, which is extended on its posterior 
surface; the lateral angles broadly and the entire sides of the median 
segment, the mesopleurae, metapleurae, and the mesosternum are 
wholly yellow; the paired median spots on dorsum of abdomen are 
all united with the lateral spots and those on tergites 2 and 3 are 
united medially, thus forming continuous, though deeply emargi- 
nated, fasciae; and the black on the legs and sternites is much reduced. 

This species is characterized by a narrow head, the basally curved 
middle metatarsi destitute of spines, the pair of tubercles on the 
second ventral and the paired spots almost white in color on the 
dorsum of the abdomen. ‘This species stands close to emarginata, 
from which it can be readily distinguished by its abdominal macula- 
tions and by the fact that the second cubital cell is almost square. 
In my judgment Fox erred in considering this species as the male of 
tenuicornis, and my reasons for so thinking are stated in my dis- 
cussion of that species. 

Habitat.—California, New Mexico, Arizona. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 5; females, 1. 

Type.— Male, Cat. No. 19804, U.S.N.M. 


STICTIELLA EMARGINATA Cresson. 
Figs. 59, 60, 87, 105. 
Monedula emarginata Cresson, Proc. Ent. Soc. Phila., vol. 4, p. 468, female and 
male. 
Monedula mamillata Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. 
Cl., vol. 99, 1890, p. 146. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except tips, clypeus, apical 
part of frons, scape below, usually a very small spot before anterior 
ocellus, broad anterior orbits, narrow posterior orbits, pair of trans- 
verse spots on posterior border of pronotum, spot on tegulae, lateral 
spots on scutellum, usually a narrow fascia on metanotum, rather 
narrow fasciae on tergites 1-6, first usually reduced to widely separ- 
ated lateral spots, second sometimes narrowly interrupted medially 
and widely and shallowly emarginate on anterior middle and some- 
times prolonged forward on either side the emargination, third, 
fourth, and fifth usually continuous and the anterior emargination 
reduced to undulations, sixth usually broken into three spots, apex 
of ultimate tergite, lateral spots or continuous fasciae on sternites 
2-5, fascia on 6, femora apically more or less, tibise except frequently 
spot below, and tarsi, yellow or yellowish white. 


NO. 2178. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. - 89 


The four males before me show an unusual amount of variation 
both in the maculations and in the color of same. On one specimen 
the body markings are decidedly white; on others bright lemon 
yellow. On a specimen from Kansas the dorsal fasciae are com- 
paratively broad and only the first is narrowly interrupted. On the 
same specimen there is a large spot on sides of prothorax. Another 
specimen from the same State shows a short pair of lateral lines on 
thescutum. The antennae show no special modifications; the middle 
femora are smooth below; the middle metatarsi are curved on the 
inner side medially and basally on the same side bear a row of about 
five or six comparatively stout spines. The second sternite bears a 
pair of short, pointed, prominent tubercles and the eighth a discal 
spine. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, space 
between antennae, scape below, very small spot in front of anterior 
ocellus extended slightly upon the vertex, very broad anterior orbits, 
moderately broad posterior orbits, pair of transverse spots on pos- 
terior border of pronotum, tubercles, spot on sides of prothorax, teg- 
ulae, usually short lateral lines above base of wings on scutum, lateral 
spots on scutellum narrowed medially and more or less approxi- 
mated, fascia on metanotum, spot on sides near lateral angles of 
median segment, rarely small spot on metapleurae, broad fasciae on 
tergites 1-5, first interrupted medially and anteriorly deeply emar- 
ginate in the middle, in some specimens cut through in such fashion 
as to leave a median posterior pair of spots, fasciae 2-5 biemarginate 
anteriorly on dorsum of tergite, apex of ultimate tergite and sternite, 
lateral spots on sternites 2-5, and small median posterior spots on 
3-4, white or faintly yellowish white. Femora more or less, tibiae 
except spot below, and tarsi, yellow. The tarsi are more or less 
testaceous, especially the posterior pair. The first and also the sec- 
ond segment of the flagellum may be yellowish below. On some 
specimens the median abdominal ventral spots are wanting; on 
others the lateral spots are connected by apical lines. 

Length.—15-18 mm. 

In both sexes the head is narrower than the thorax and the white, 
dense, rather short pubescence on the head, thorax and base of abdo- 
men is somewhat better developed on the male than on the female. 
The pulvilli are distinct in both sexes. The wings are slightly in- 
fumated and the width of the second cubital cell on the radial vein 
is about half its width on the cubitus. 

It seems highly probable that Handlirsch’s mamillata is identical 
with this species, and I have so considered it. In his description of 
the male Cresson makes no mention of tubercles on the second ster- 
nite. I have, however, examined the specimens of this species in the 
collection of the American Entomological Society of Philadelphia, 


40 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL, 52. 


among which is the type of the species, and the males there agree 
with the description given above. All specimens that I have referred 
to this species, both males and females, have the second cubital cell 
narrowed on the radial vein, and all the Males have the second ster- 
nite bituberculate, thus agreeing with Handlirsch’s mamillata. 
Habitat.—New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas. 
Number of specimens examined—males, 9; females, 14. 


STICTIELLA PULCHELLA Cresson. 
Figs. 61, 62, 88, 106. 


Monedula pulchella Cresson, Proc. Ent. Soc. Phila., vol. 4, 1865, p. 471, female 
and male. 

Monedula minutula Hanpurrscn, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. 
Cl., vol. 99, 1890, p. 148, female. 

Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except ‘apices, apical half of 
clypeus, pair of minute spots on frons below and between antennae, 
pair of spots laterad of the insertion of antennae prolonged upward 
as exceedingly narrow anterior orbits, comparatively broad posterior 
orbits, broken line on posterior border of pronotum, tubercles con- 
nected with an irregular spot on side of prothorax, spot on tegulae, 
small lateral spots on scutellum, narrow broken fascia on metano- 
tum, spot on lateral angles and spiracles of median segment, spot on 
metapleurae, two small spots on mesopleurae, widely separated 
lateral spots on first tergite, continuous fasciae on tergites 2-6, that 
on second broadly but not very deeply emarginate on anterior middle, 
remaining fasciae biemarginate on anterior border and all with a 
notch on posterior middle, apex of ultimate tergite, continuous fas- 
ciae on all sternites, apical spot on coxae below, femora except stripe 
above and below, tibiae except stripe below on first and second pairs, 
and tarsi, yellow. 

The eyes are distinctly divergent above. The middle femora are 
serrate below and the middle metatarsi are distinctly curved on the 
inner side and basally bear several spines. The second sternite bears 
a pair of small tubercles and the eighth lacks a discal spine. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons, curved spot below anterior ocellus, scape below, broad 
anterior orbits, posterior orbits broad below, posterior border of pro- 
notum, sides of prothorax except line in front of tubercles, tegulae, 
lateral lines on scutum, fascia on scutellum narrow medially, fascia 
on metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median segment inter- 
rupted medially, lateral angles and nearly the entire sides of the me- 
dian segment, metapleurae, mesopleurae, and mesosternum except 
large area in front of the middle coxae, continuous fasciae on tergites, 
first with a wide anterior medial emargination ending in three points 
posteriorly and with three shallow emarginations on posterior border, 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 41 


second with a wide square medial anterior emargination, remaining 
fasciae slightly biemarginate on anterior middle, heart-shaped spot 
on apex of ultimate tergite, apical fasciae on all sternites distinctly 
narrowed medially on 5, apex of ultimate sternite, coxae, and tro- 
chanters below more or less, femora except broad stripe above and 
short stripe below on posterior pair, tibiae except spot below on first 
and second pairs, and tarsi, yellow or yellowish white. 

Length.—14-16 mm. 

On both male and female the flagellum is ferruginous above and 
fulvous below; the apical segment is curved, and in the male the pos- 
terior border of the flagellum is slightly carinate. The wings are 
hyaline, the veins fulvous. The pulvilli are indistinct. The fascia 
on the scutellum of one female is broken into spots similar to those on 
the male, the fascia on the median segment appears as faint oblique 
lines, yellow on mesosternum and mesopleurae much reduced, and 
the black on the legs present on all tibiae and below on posterior and 
middle femora. The frons and clypeus of the female show a silvery 
reflection; the eyes are widely separated and only slightly divergent 
above. 

All specimens differ from the original description in that they show 
no trace of discal marks on the scutum, and the male has the base of 
the clypeus black. 

Habiiat.—California. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 17; females, 10. 


STICTIELLA SPECIOSA Cresson. 
Figs. 63, 64, 89, 107. 


Monedula speciosa Cresson, Proc. Ent. Soc. Phila., vol. 4, 1865, p. 470, female. 
? Monedula speciosa Patton, Bull. U.S. Geol. Surv., vol. 5, 1879, p. 361. 


Male.—Black: Clypeus, labrum except an indefinite medial stripe, 
mandibles except apices, lower part of frons extended in a triangular 
area above insertion of antennae, semicircular spot below anterior 
ocellus, scape below, broad anterior orbits, posterior orbits broader 
below than above, prothorax except a broad anterior dorsal spot, 
tegulae, short lateral lines on scutum above tegulae, broad fascia on 
scutellum, narrow fascia on metanotum, broad curved fascia on dor- 
sum of median segment extended down medially on posterior surface, 
sides of same entirely including lateral angles and much of posterior 
surface, mesopleurae except large spot below extended on meso- 
sternum almost to the median line, metapleurae, fascia on first ter- 
gite broad laterally, interrupted narrowly in the middle, broadly 
emarginate on anterior middle and slightly on either side the pos- 
terior middle, fascia on second broad, continuous, inclosing a pair of 
median, elliptical, transverse, black spots and triundulate on pos- 
terior margin, fasciae on 3-6 broad, biemarginate on anterior margin 


49 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


and undulate on posterior, apex of ultimate tergite, first sternite 
except small lateral spots, second except median longitudinal line, 
triangular lateral spots on 3-6, which may or may not be connected 
by apical lines, coxae, trochanters except spot above, femora except 
line on first and traces of line on second above, tarsi except all ulti- 
mate segments, pale yellow, deeper in shade on the legs. 

The flagellum is ferruginous below, shading to yellowish on the 
basal segments, and 3-6 bear inconspicuous specialized areas. The 
second cubital cross vein is decidedly curved, so that the width of the 
second cubital cell on the radial veins is much less than its width on 
the cubitus. The middle femora below are dentate. The tibiae are 
not dilated as in formosa and are provided on the anterior at the apex 
with a short, stout spine. The middle metatarsi on the inner side are 
curved and bear near the base a row of four stout spines, of which the 
two in the middle are largest. The ultimate segment on all tarsi is 
flat and black and on the anterior pair is greatly broadened, but the 
claws are of the normal form. The second sternite bears near its 
posterior margin a pair of short but conspicuous tubercles, and the 
eighth lacks a discal spine; the ultimate tergite basally bears a num- 
ber of short lateral stout spines. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except tips, clypeus, scape, 
first two flagellar segments below, frons except a pair of widely sepa- 
rated points at base of clypeus and a large butterfly-shaped black spot 
on the middle, which may be connected laterally with the black of 
the vertex; large spot almost inclosing the anterior ocellus; broad 
posterior orbits extended across the posterior edge of vertex; pro- 
thorax except a broad anterior dorsal spot and a dusky line in front 
of tubercles, tegulae, lateral lines, and a U-shaped discal mark that 
may be narrowly interrupted at posterior middle on scutum, broad 
transverse fascia on middle of scutellum, fascia on metonotum, 
median segment entirely except a black fascia on anterior border, a 
short black vertical line on posterior surface and rather broad black 
bands bordering sutures on dorsum and posterior surface, pair of 
large spots on mesopleurae of which the anterior one may be pro- 
longed on the front border of the mesosternum to the ventral mid- 
line, thence backward narrowly to spot in front of middle coxae, 
metapleurae, all tergites (except a medial, rounded, black emargina- 
tion on the first, a narrow anterior black margin somewhat broader 
laterally and continuous with a small but deep black emargination on 
either side the midline on the second, a somewhat broader anterior 
black margin with broader, shallower emargination on either side the 
midline on third, fourth, and fifth, and black lateral spots on sixth), 
lateral spots on sternites 1-5, the posterior ones smallest, pair of spots 
on apex of ultimate sternite, coxae except basal spots, trochanters 
except spot above, femora except line above reduced on posterior 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 43 


pair, tibiae, and tarsi except tips of middle and posterior pairs, yellow 
or yelloursh white. 

On the abdomen the markings are almost white, the color approxi- 
mating Ridgway’s marguerite yellow. On the thorax and median 
segment above and on the head the yellowish tinge is somewhat more 
apparent; it is still more conspicuous on the scape and sides of thorax 
and median segment, and the legs, except the coxae, are decidedly 
yellow. The under side of the flagellum is yellowish, changing to tes- 
taceous toward the apex. The ultimate segments of the tarsi are but 
slightly dilated, and that of the middle tarsi and all the segments of 
the posterior pair except the metatarsi are decidedly dusky above. 

Length.—18-20 mm. 

The wings in both sexes are hyaline and the nervures brown. The 
narrowing of the second cubital cell on the radial vein is less pro- 
nounced in the female than in the male. The pubescence is rela- 
tively short, moderately dense and white except on the vertex, where 
it assumes a brownish color. The head is somewhat narrower than 
the thorax, more evident in the male than in the female, and the inner 
margins of the eyes are approximately parallel. On the type (a 
female) there are fasciae on sternites 2-4; on the female from Kansas 
the lateral spots on sternites 1, 2, and 6 are united on the midline. 
The fasciae on the tergites of the male are narrower than those of the 
female, and the first is interrupted medially, but in design they are 
quite similar. 

In the discussion of formosa it is pointed out that that species has 
been regarded as identical with this, but it is very easy to separate 
the males on structural differences, and, although the females lack 
these structural characters, their markings are just as distinctly dif- 
ferent as are the structures on the males. On formosa all tergites 
except the last possess a black apical border; this black border is 
entirely wanting on speciosa. The apical tarsal segments of formosa 
are yellow; the middle and posterior pairs of speciosa are dusky, 
almost black. The fasciae on the tergites of formosa are yellow; on 
speciosa they are almost white. 

Halitat.—Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas. 

Number of specimens examined: Males, 2; females, 4. 


STICTIELLA MELAMPOUS, new species. 
Figs. 65, 66, 108. 
? Monedula speciosa Patron, Bull. U. 8. Geol. Surv., vol. 5, 1879, p. 361. 
_Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape, 
and first two segments of the flagellum below, lower part of frons pro- 


duced upward between antennae, curved spot in front of anterior 
ocellus, broad anterior orbits, narrow posterior orbits, prothorax 


44 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


except broad anterior dorsal spot with undulate posterior border and 
a line in front of tubercles enlarged at inner end, tegulae, narrow line 
above base of wings on scutum, lateral spots on scutellum narrowed 
toward the median line, narrow fascia on metanotum, pair of broken 
oblique lines on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles and spot 
near spiracle of same, metapleurae, small spot on mesopleurae 
behind the tubercles and another large one on anterior border that 
meets its fellow on the midline of the mesosternum, spot on meso- 
sternum between middle coxae, broad, widely separated lateral spots 
and a pair of small median posterior spots on first tergite, narrow 
fasciae on tergites 2-5 continuous except that on tergite 2 and all 
biemarginate on anterior middle, sixth with a large median and small 
lateral spots, apex of ultimate tergite, lateral spots on sternites 2-5, 
coxae except basally, trochanters apically below, femora except 
stripe above on first pair, tibiae, and tarsi except ultimate segment 
on first and second pairs, and the last three segments on posterior 
pair, yellow. 

The flagellum is testaceous below and slightly carinate posteriorly ; 
the apical segment is reddish, much lighter than the others, slightly 
flattened apically, neither curved nor truncate, and somewhat longer 
than the segment immediately preceding. The middle femora are 
serrate below and the middle metatarsi are distinctly curved on the 
inner side and basally bear three spines, of which the distal two are 
large and prominent. The apical segment of all tarsi is black, dilated, 
flattened, and rounded apically, those on the anterior pair being 
dilated most, those on the posterior pair least, on which pair the third 
and fourth segments also are dark above and below. The pulvilli 
are large and distinct. The second sternite bears a pair of low, 
rounded, and somewhat widely separated tubercles and the eighth 
lacks a discal spine. The seventh tergite bears at the extreme lateral 
edges an inconspicuous ridge, from below which spring a number of 
short, stout spines. The pubescence is white, short, and moderately 
dense on head, thorax, and base of the first segment of the abdomen; 
the remaining segments are scarcely pubescent at all and show a 
beautiful bluish-violet iridescence. 

Length.—15 mm. 

The second specimen lacks the medial spots on the first tergite, 
but has a pair on the second and third. On the fourth and fifth they 
are united medially, and on the fourth also with the lateral spots. 
It also lacks the broken lines on the dorsum of the median segment 
and has all the femora striped with black above. 

This species stands quite close to speciosa, with which it agrees in 
respect to the special structures of the legs, the tubercles on the second 
sternite, and the lateral spines on the ultimate tergite. It differs 
from speciosa, however, in that the second cubital cross vein is 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PAREER. 45 


scarcely curved, and consequently the second cubital cell is narrowed 
but little on the radial vein. Furthermore this species is much 
smaller and more slender and the pattern of its maculations is en- 
tirely different. It ismy conviction that it was a male of this species 
that Patton in Bulletin 5, United States Geological Survey (p. 361), 
described as the male of speciosa. 

Described from two males collected by Mr. F. X. Wiliams, August, 
1911. 

Habitat.—Seward County, Kansas. 

Type and Paratype.—Collection of University of Kansas. 


STICTIELLA VILLOSA Fox. 
Figs. 3, 67, 68. 


Monedula mamillata Fox (not Handlirsch), Proc. Cal. Acad. Sci., (2) vol. 4, 1893, 
p- 10. 
Monedula villosa Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 370, male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
and basal segments of flagellum below, space between insertion of 
antennae, spot on either side anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, 
posterior orbits broader below than above, prothorax except median 
anterior dorsal spot and spot before tubercles, tegulae, short lateral 
line above tegulae and pair of anterior discal spots on scutum, 
large lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on metanotum sometimes 
interrupted medially, spot on sides of median segment, metapleurae, 
large spot on mesopleurae in most specimens continuous with a longi- 
tudinal median mesosternal stripe that may be reduced to a median 
spot in front of middle coxae, broad fasciae on tergites 1-6, the first 
deeply and somewhat roundly emarginate on anterior middle, second, 
third, and fourth more widely and successively less deeply emarginate 
on anterior middle, fifth and sixth slightly waved, but not emargi- 
nate, apex of ultimate tergite, sternites entirely except black anterior 
lateral spots on 1 and 2, a narrow median anterior black spot on 3 
and 4 and a narrow anterior black border on 5 and 6, spot on all 
coxae below, trochanters apically more or less, femora except stripe 
above, tibiae, and tarsi, bright greenish yellow. 

Length.—10-13 mm. 

The clypeus is almost white, faintly tinged with greenish yellow. 
The fasciae on the first four tergites posterior to the medial emargina- 
tion are also white— a character that is constant and in degree varies 
only slightly on the first fascia. The flagellum varies below from 
greenish yellow basally to testaceous apically. The head, thorax, 
basal joints of the legs, including the femora, and the base of the 
abdomen, are densely covered with long, shaggy, white pubescence— 
a character that distinguishes this species from all others herein listed. 
The legs show no special modifications and the pulvilli are large and 


46 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


distinct. 'The second sternite in some specimens bears a pair of tu- 
bercles rather poorly developed but quite distinct; in other speci- 
mens this sternite lacks these tubercles entirely. The eighth bears 
a prominent discal spine. The wings are hyaline and very long, 
reaching almost to the end of the abdomen and being more than 
twice as long as the thorax and middle segment together. Variation 
in the extent of the maculations is slight, yet there is some reduction 
in the size of the spots on the thorax and median segment. When 
the abdominal segments are closely drawn together the venter appears 
almost entirely yellow. 

Habitat—New Mexico, Arizona, Mexico. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 11; females, 0. 


STICTIELLA SCITULA Fox. 


Monedula scitula Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 369, female. 


Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape, 
flagellum below, frons except a median black spot (shaped somewhat 
like an expanded butterfly), connected laterally above with a trans- 
verse black stripe across the vertex, from which a stripe occupies the 
pit of the anterior ocellus, broad posterior orbits broadly connected 
across the vertex, prothorax, tegulae, broad lateral lines and U-shaped 
discal mark, which may be broken into three spots, on scutum, large 
lateral spots on scutellum approximated medially, fascia on metano- 
tum, broad curved fascia on dorsum of median segment, broad lat- 
eral angles and sides of median segment, sides and venter of thorax 
entirely except the narrow lines of the sutures, broad fasciae on ter- 
gites 1-5, first with a median anterior black spot, which in some 
cases is connected with the black on base of segment, second, third, 
and fourth with wide, shallow, median, anterior emargination, 
slightly extended backward at the posterior lateral angles, especially 
on the second, fifth with anterior border undulate, apex of ultimate 
tergite, sternites entirely, legs entirely, bright lemon yellow. 

Length.—10-11 mm. 

The flagellum is testaceous above, lightest at apex. The clypeus 
and labrum are much lighter in color than the rest of the body mark- 
ings. The region posterior to the base of the mandibles, frons above 
the antennae, and the vertex are provided with long, dense, white 
pubescence; the pubescence of the thorax and base of the abdomen 
is shorter and more sparse. Altogether the pubescence is more con- 
spicuous on this species than is common on females of this genus. 
The pulvilli are large and distinct. The wings are hyaline, long, 
reaching nearly to the end of the abdomen, and fully twice the length 
of the thorax and median segment combined. ‘The species is of nor- 
mal form, but in the case of many specimens the abdomen is abnor- 
mally contracted, and it was from specimens of this kind that the 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 47 


original description was made. The unusual development of the 
pubescence on this species and on villosa, the similarity of the wing 
venation of the two and their common habitat raise the question 
as to whether this may not be the female of that species. I should 
not be surprised if later investigation should prove such to be the 
case. : 

Habitat.—New Mexico, Arizona. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 0; females, 16. 


STICTIELLA TENUICORNIS Fox. 
Figs. 69, 70, 90. 
Monedula tenuicornis Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 368, female. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, mandibles except apices, inferior 
part of frons, large spot about anterior ocellus connected by a ver- 
tical line with the yellow of the frons below, broad anterior orbits, 
posterior orbits continued somewhat on the posterior border of ver- 
tex, prothorax except median anterior dorsal spot, broad lateral lines 
and U-shaped discal mark, which may be broken, on scutum, tegu- 
lae, fascia on scutellum broad laterally, metanotum, broad, curved 
fascia on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles broadly and sides 
of same, metapleurae, mesopleurae and mesosternum except small 
spot in front of middle coxae, broad fasciae on tergites 1-6, the first 
squarely and deeply emarginate on anterior middle and deeply and 
triangularly emarginate on either side of the posterior middle, second 
with a transverse, arcuate, medial, anterior black spot and three 
shallow posterior emarginations, third with a narrow medial ante- 
rior emargination greatly extended to right and left on middle of 
tergite and with three posterior emarginations, the middle one deep- 
est, fourth, fifth, and sixth similar to third, but with anterior emar- 
gination modified and posterior black border reduced, apex of ulti- 
mate tergite, first and second sternites entirely, broad fasciae on 3-6 
narrowed medially and sometimes also laterally, coxae except spot 
on posterior pair below, trochanters except spot above, femora except 
stripe above, tibiae, and tarsi, bright lemon yellow, of deeper shade 
on the legs. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, mandibles except apices, scape 
and basal segments of flagellum below, frons below, V-shaped spot 
in front of anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, posterior orbits 
broad below and extended on vertex, sometimes entirely across, pro- 
thorax except medial anterior dorsal spot, tegulae, lateral limes and 
U-shaped discal mark, sometimes broken into three spots, on scutum, 
fascia on scutellum narrowed medially, metanotum, broad fascia on 
dorsum of median segment prolonged medially on posterior surface, 
its sides, lateral angles, and most of its posterior surface, metapleurae, 
mesopleurae, mesosternum except spot in front of middle coxae, broad 


48 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. vol. §2. 


fasciae on tergites 1-6, first with a deep rectangular emargination at an- 
terior middle and three slight emarginations on posterior border, second 
with @n elliptical black spot near the middle on either side the median 
line and three slight posterior emarginations, third similar to second, 
but with two black spots narrowly united to an anterior medial emar- 
gination, fourth and fifth on anterior margin dorsally biemarginate 
and laterally waved, ultimate tergite except narrow anterior border, 
first and second sternites entirely, third entirely or with only a cen- 
tral anterior black spot, fourth and fifth with rather broad fasciae 
narrowed medially and laterally, ultimate sternite apically, coxae, 
trochanters except spot above, femora except stripe above, tibiae 
except sometimes a stripe below, and tarsi, lemon yellow. 

Length.—16-18 mm. 

The flagellum in both sexes is slender, and the apical half is tes- 
taceous below. In the male the apical half is carinate on the pos- 
terior side and the ultimate segment curved. The intermediate 
femora of the male are smooth beneath and the metatarsus not 
curved. The second sternite is nontuberculate and the eighth is 
without a discal spine. In color and markings the sexes are remark- 
ably similar and the different specimens show but little variation 
from the typical form. On the first tergite the emargination may 
appear as an anterior rectangular black spot or it may be connected 
with the posterior emargination so as to cut off a pair of posterior 
median yellow spots or a single yellow spot. On the second on both 
male and female we usually find a single median black spot that 
may or may not be connected by a narrow medial emargination 
with the anterior black border. Other slight modifications may 
occur but the basic pattern remains the same, the variations being 
due to a greater or less extension of the black on the dorsal surface. 
The lateral borders of the ultimate tergite of the female, especially 
toward the base, are provided with numerous stout spines. The 
wings are hyaline and relatively long; the pubescence short and 
sparse, and the labrum, clypeus, and anterior orbits of the female show 
a silvery reflection when viewed at the proper angle. In his descrip- 
tion of this species Fox associated as male and female of the species 
a male that I regard as representative of a different species entirely. 
I base this judgment on the fact that males I have before me and 
the female of Fox’s tenuicornis are so similar that they can be dis- 
tinguished only by their sexual characteristics, whereas the male 
Fox assigned to this species differs from the female not only in color 
and widely in the pattern of the markings, bit also in having the 
head narrower than the thorax. I have accordingly considered the 
male as representative of a new species and have redescribed it 
herein under the name bituberculata. 

Habitat.—California, Arizona, Texas. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 3; females, 7. 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 49 


STICTIELLA MEGACERA, new species. 
Figs. 71, 72, 91. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
except narrow line above, first two flagellar segments below, lower part 
of frons, V-shaped spot below anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, 
posterior orbits, narrow posterior dorsal border and sides of prothorax 
except narrow line in front of tubercles, tegulae, short lateral lines 
above base of wings on scutum, large lateral spots on scutellum, 
short fascia on metanotum, lateral angles and sides of median seg- 
ment, metapleurae, broad irregular line on mesopleurae and meso- 
sternum meeting on the middle of the latter and prolonged back- 
ward to the middle coxae, fasciae on tergites, first broad laterally 
but widely and deeply emarginate on anterior middle, biemarginate 
on posterior border and almost interrupted on midline, second 
broad with a narrower anterior median emargination, of which the 
posterior lateral angles are strongly produced obliquely laterally, 
third with broad, shallow, anterior, median emargination, the remain- 
der with slightly undulate anterior borders, apex of ultimate tergite, 
first sternite, second except irregular anterior border, remaining 
sternites with broad fasciae (which, when the abdomen is strongly 
flexed, cause the sternites to appear entirely yellow), coxae, tro- 
chanters except spot above, tibiae, and tarsi, yellow. 

The flagellum is dark above, reddish below. The second seg- 
ment widens apically and the third is still broader; from the fourth 
to the apex the width decreases imperceptibly. The ultimate seg- 
ment is slightly curved and somewhat flattened apically. The legs 
are relatively short and unusually stout. The middle femora are 
decidedly short, thick and heavy and are smooth below; the middle 
metatarsi are also unusually short, thick, and heavy and show no 
trace of curve or spines on inner surface. The posterior are like- 
wise unusually thick, heavy, and rounded and when seen from in 
front are plainly arcuate, the hollow of the bow being on the upper 
side. The pulvilli are large and distinct. The wings are hyaline 
and a trifle over twice as long as the combined length of the thorax 
and median segment. The pubescence is white, moderately long, 
and dense on head, thorax, and base of abdomen; it is somewhat 
shorter and less dense yet quite evident on all sternites and very 
short and sparse on tergites. The second sternite bears a very 
large median spine, very heavy at the base, bluntly pointed and 
hirsute. The terminal spines of the eighth are very short and a 
discal spine is lacking. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except tips, clypeus, scape 
below, greater part of flagellum below, lower part of frons, V-shaped 
spot below anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, posterior orbits 

65008 °—Proc.N.M.vol.52—17——-4 


50 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


narrow above, narrow line on posterior border of pronotum, greater 
part of sides of prothorax, tegulae, narrow lateral lines on scutum, 
large lateral triangular spots on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, 
curved fascia on dorsum of median segment narrowly interrupted on 
posterior surface of segment, lateral angles and sides of same, large 
spot on metapleurae, small posterior and larger anterior spot on 
mesopleurae the latter of which extends downward to join its fellow 
on the sternum and forming with it a longitudinal band that reaches 
the middle coxae, fasciae on tergites, first broad laterally but deeply 
and widely emarginate on the anterior middle, nearly interrupted on 
mid-dorsal line, and slightly biemarginate on the posterior border, 
second with lateral sinuations and broad median emarginations on 
anterior border, third with anterior lateral sinuations and dorsally 
biemarginate, fourth and fifth undulate on anterior border, apex of 
sixth broadly, broad fasciae on sternites, the more posterior ones 
narrowed medially, coxae, tochanters and femora except broadly 
above, tibiae, and tarsi, yellow, the color being very pale on the 
labium, clypeus, orbits, and fasciae of the tergites. 

The flagellum is dark, testaceous above, yellow below, basally be- 
coming somewhat rufous apically. It does not show the broadening 
of the medial segments seen on the male. The legs are relatively 
short and stout, the middle metatarsus being similar to that of the 
male. The second cubital cell is almost a perfect rectangle. The 
pubescence is like that on the male. 

Length.—14-16 mm. 

Described from two males and one female; one male from Arboles, 
Colorado, second male from Iron County, Utah, and the female 
from North Yakima, Washington. 

Type.—Male in the Brooklyn Museum. Allotype and paratype, 
Cat. No. 19805, U.S.N.M. 


STICTIELLA EXIGUA Fox. 
Figs. 73, 74, 92. 
Monedula exigua Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 370, female. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, inferior 
part of frons, curved spot on either side the anterior ocellus, almost 
inclosing it, scape except apical spot above, broad anterior orbits nar- 
rowed to a point above, posterior orbits more or less perfectly con- 
nected across the posterior of vertex, prothorax except small anterior 
median dorsal spot, lateral lines and a pair of large discal spots on 
scutum, broad fascia roundly emarginate on anterior middle or nar- 
rowly interrupted on midline on scutellum, metanotum, broad curved 
fascia on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles broadly and sides 
of same, metapleurae, mesopleurac, and mesosternum except nar- 
row anterior black border and large lateral black spot on front and 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 51 


above the middle coxae continued upward along the suture between 
the mesopleurae and metapleurae, broad fasciae on tergites, first 
with a broad rounded shallow emargination on anterior middle, 
second to fifth each with a wide and very shallow anterior emargina- 
tion on either side the dorsal midline, apex of ultimate tergite, 
sternites 1-3 entirely, broad apical fasciae on 4-6, legs entirely except 
spots above on trochanters and femora basally, yellow. The legs are 
of the normal form, without any special modifications. The second 
sternite bears a pair of closely placed, sharply pointed, prominent 
tubercles, and the eighth a prominent discal spine. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, frons 
below, pair of curved spots almost inclosing anterior ocellus, broad 
anterior orbits narrowed to a point above, scape, posterior orbits con- 
tinuous on vertex, prothorax, tegulae, broad lateral lines and pair of 
broad discal lines narrowed posteriorly on scutum, scutellum, meta- 
notum, dorsum of median segment except curved black fascia on an- 
terior border, lateral angles, sides and almost all the posterior surface 
of median segment, metapleurae, mesopleurae, and mesosternum ex- 
cept lateral spots in front and slightly above middle coxae, tergites 
except shallow median anterior black emargination on first, narrow 
anterior black border on remainder, slightly waved on 3-5 and notched 
on 6, sternites entirely except basal border of 5 and 6, legs entirely 
except basal spots above on trochanters, and femora, yellow. The 
clypeus, labrum, and frons are decidedly silvery, the sides of the 
thorax less so, and even the venter of the abdomen shows a trace of 
this. 

In both sexes the flagellum is cylindrical in form, testaceous above, 
yellowish or testaceous below, and lighter in the female than in the 
male. The silveriness of the face and sides of the thorax is less evi- 
dent in the male than in the female. The pubescence is short and 
inconspicuous. The wings are hyaline and the veins brown. The 
pulvilli are distinct. 

Length—9-13 mm. 

The description above is made from two males and one female col- 
lected by F. H. Snow, in Arizona. A comparison with Fox’s type of 
exigua convinces me of their identity, although the markings on these 
specimens are somewhat more extensively developed than are those 
on the type which is a female from Montana. 

This species stands very close to Stictiella pulla Handlirsch, from 
which it is distinguished chiefly by the more extensive maculations. 

Habitat—Arizona, Montana. 


52 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


STICTIELLA PULLA Handlirsch. 
Figs. 75, 93. 


Monedula pulla Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. CL., 
vol. 99, 1890, p. 149, female. 
Monedula usitata Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 371, male. 

Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, lower part of 
clypeus variable in extent, scape below, space between insertion of 
antennae, minute spot on either side of anterior ocellus, anterior 
orbits, posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum, tubercles and 
narrow lines on border of side of prothorax, tegulae, lateral spot on 
scutum above tegulae, large lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on meta- 
notum, curved fascia on dorsum of median segment sometimes 
reduced to two spots or entirely wanting, spiracle and spot on sides of 
median segment usually extended on lateral angles, spot on metapleu- 
rae, irregular spot on mesopleurae, broad fasciae on tergites 1-6, the 
first with broad, shallow, medial, anterior emargination, remainder 
with a shallow anterior emargination on either side the mid-dorsal line, 
ultimate tergite apically, first sternite except anterior lateral spots, 
the remaining sternites except narrow basal border varying somewhat 
in width on the several sternites, coxae except base more or less, tro- 
chanters below, femora except broad stripe above and below which 
stripes are united on posterior pair, tibiae except spot below on ante- 
rior and middle pairs and occasionally on posterior pair, and tarsi, 
yellow. The antennae and legs show no special modifications. The 
second sternite bears a pair of short approximated processes and the 
eighth a prominent discal spine. 

Female.—The female, with regard to general appearance and pat- 
tern of maculations, is essentially like the male. The black on the 
clypeus is wanting or reduced to small basal lateral spots; that on the 
legs is somewhat more extensively developed. The yellow markings 
are somewhat brighter in color and slightly better developed; on one 
female there is a pair of small discal spots on the scutum. Aside 
from these differences in color and the absence of the secondary sexual 
modifications found on the male, the description above will apply to 
the female also. 

Length—10-14 mm. 

In both sexes the flagellum below is yellowish or testaceous, 
decreasing in intensity toward the apex. The black on the ciypeus 
of the male is variable in extent; it is never entirely absent and it 
never spreads over the entire clypeus. On both male and female 
the clypeus appears somewhat silvery, more evident on well-preserved 
specimens of the female than on the male. The fasciae on the 
tergites of the male show two distinct shades of color, lemon yellow 
and yellowish white, somewhat variable in their arrangement; this 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 53 


diversity of shade in the fasciae is less apparent on the female owing 
to their deeper and brighter color. The apical segment of all tarsi 
on the female is longer than the two preceding segments together, 
is heavy, not flattened, rectangular in outline and thickly beset with 
stout hair below; on the male this segment is more slender, conical 
and comparatively shorter. The pulvilli on both male and female 
are large and distinct and the pubescence is not at all conspicuous. 
The wings are hyaline and the form of the three cubital cells, identical 
in the sexes. 

I have associated here as sexes of one species Handlirsch’s pulla, 
a female, and the male of Fox’s usitata. I have done this for the 
following reasons: The pattern of their maculations is almost identical; 
the pulvilli are large and distinct in both cases; the form of the 
third cubital cell is peculiar and common to both; they are of the 
same size and are found in the same locality. The female of Fox’s 
usitata has indistinct pulvilli, the sternites wholly without fasciae, 
and the form of the third cubital cell is distinctly different from that 
of the male he associated with it. Furthermore, I am convinced 
that the female referred by Fox to his usitata is the female of his 
plana. The character of the pulvilli, the maculations and the habitat 
all point to this conclusion. 

Habitat.—California, Washington. 

Number of specimens examined—males, 12; females 8. 


STICTIELLA FEMORATA Fox. 
Figs. 76, 77, 94, 109. 
Monedula femorata Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 363, male. 


Male.—Black: Clypeus, labrum, mandibles except apices, scape 
below, spot in front of anterior ocellus and inferior part of frons, 
separated by a butterfly-shaped spot that above is broadly connected 
laterally with the black of the vertex, broad anterior orbits shortened 
above, narrow posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum con- 
nected on tubercles with a large spot on sides of prothorax, small spot 
on tegulae, small spot near tegulae on scutum, lateral spots on 
scutellum, metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median segment 
more or less broken, irregular spot on mesopleurae extending on the 
mesosternum, small spot on metapleurae, spot on lateral angles of 
median segment, fasciae on tergites 1-6 narrowly interrupted medially, 
apex of ultimate tergite, fasciae on sternites 1-6, legs except upper 
side of coxae, trochanters, femora and more or less of the posterior 
tibiae, yellow or yellowish white. 

The flagellum is testaceous beneath except the more basal joints, 
which are yellowish; segments 6-11 seen from below are distinctly 
carinate on the posterior border and the apical segment is flattened 


PROCHEDINGS OF THH NATIONAL MUSHUM, VOL, 02. 


and curved. The pulvilli are distinct; the anterior tarsi are un- 
usually flat and broad, the apical segment less so, and each segment 
below bears a black spot. The medial femora are strongly emarginate 
below and bear a slight notch beyond the emargination. The hind 
femora are also more or less emarginate below, sometimes taking the 
form of a slight dilation of the segment apically beyond the middle. 
The second sternite is bituberculate. 

Female.—Black: Clypeus, labrum, mandibles except apices, scape 
except small spot above, semicircular spot in front of anterior ocellus 
and lower part of frons separated by a black butterfly-shaped spot 
that above is broadly connected laterally with the black of the vertex, 
posterior orbits usually united across the vertex, posterior border of 
pronotum including the tubercles, sides of prothorax except spot in 
front of tubercles, tegulae, lateral lines above tegulae and medial 
longitudinal discal lines which may be continued posteriorly to form 
a more or less broken U-shaped mark on scutum, curved fascia on 
scutellum, narrowed medially, fascia on metanotum, continuous 
curved fascia on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles of same, 
mesopleurae and sternum aimost entirely, spot on metapleurae, spot 
on side of median segment anteriorly, fasciae on tergites continuous 
and rather broad, the first with a broad shallow anterior emargina- 
tion, the remainder slightly waved anteriorly but not emarginate, 
medial spot on apex of ultimate tergite, middle and narrow apical 
margin of first sternite, fasciae on sternites 2-5, that on second broad 
and deeply emarginate anteriorly, apex of ultimate sternite, legs 
below except spot on middle and posterior coxae, and above except 
spots on all coxae, trochanters, femora, and posterior tibiae, yellow 
or pale yelloursh white. The flagellum is testaceous below. The 
middle femora are short and stout; the posterior femora are in- 
crassate near the middle; the apical segment of the anterior tarsi is 
not dilated so much as that of the male; the pulvilli are present but 
small. 

Length.—9-12 mm. 

Of the four male specimens before me one, the type specimen, is 
from Florida, and three are from Texas. The specimens from Texas 
differ from the type in that the emarginations of the middle and 
posterior femora are less pronounced. One of the males from Texas 
is somewhat smaller than the type. In his description Fox states 
that the intermediate metatarsus is curved, which statement can 
scarcely be considered accurate; the segment is bent quite near the 
base but it is not curved as is that of serrata or speciosa. It is, how- 
ever, near the base slightly dilated on the anterior margin and some- 
what roundly incised on the inner side in much the same fashion as 
is the corresponding segment on the anterior tarsus. Furthermore 
the inner, posterior angle of the middle tibia is produced into a short 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 55 


spine, which, with the incision on the metatarsus, forms a structure 
quite similar to the antenna cleaner invariably found on the first 
_ pair of legs of wasps and bees. In addition to the two prominent 
processes on the second sternite of the type specimen, there is a 
smaller and more widely separated pair on the third and an incon- 
spicuous pair on the fourth. These secondary ventral processes are 
also more or less well developed on the other males. 

In both sexes the wings are hyaline, short, and scarcely reach the 
posterior border of the third abdominal segment. The veins are 
brown. The pubescence is short, white, and not conspicuous. The 
male of this species can scarcely be confused with that of any other 
except divergens, from which it can be distinguished by the more 
extensive maculations of the latter and particularly by the form of 
the genital stipes. The peculiar modification of the middle femora, 
the unique structure found at the union of the middle tibia and meta- 
tarsus, and the presence of secondary processes on sternites three 
and four separate this species and the one following from all others. 
Length, 9-12 millimeters. 

Habitat.—Florida, Texas. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 4; females, 5. 


' STICTIELLA DIVERGENS, new species. 
Figs. 78, 79, 95, 110. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except tips, clypeus, scape, 
flagellum below, lower part of frons extended upward between 
antennae, irregular semicircular spot below anterior ocellus, broad 
anterior orbits shortened and narrowed to a point above, narrow 
posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum, sides of prothorax 
except irregular spot in front of tubercles, tegulae, lateral lines and 
pair of discal lines (absent on paratype) on scutum, fascia on scutellum, 
curved fascia on dorsum of median segment narrowly interrupted 
medially, lateral angles and spot at spiracles on median segment, 
spot on metapleurae, mesopleurae almost entirely, mesosternum 
entirely, fasciae on tergites 1-6, first broad laterally, narrower medially 
with deep acute anterior median emargination, remaining fasciae 
somewhat narrower medially than laterally and slightly sinuate 
(those on tergites 4-6 of paratype narrowly interrupted medially), 
apex of seventh tergite, second sternite except pair of small anterior 
lateral black spots, continuous fasciae on sternites 3-6 the more 
posterior ones narrowest, legs entirely except black spots above on 
trochanters and basally on femora and conspicuous black spots 
on all segments of the anterior tarsi below, bright yellow. The more 
posterior fasciae on the abdomen both above and below are, however, 
yellowish white. 


56 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


The flagellum is testaceous above and segments 6-10 are slightly 
carinate on the posterior surface. The ultimate flagellar segment 
is curved and obliquely truncate at the apex. The wings are hyaline 
and the second cubital cell is decidedly narrower on the radial vein 
than it is on the cubitus. The anterior tarsus is somewhat flattened 
but scarcely as much so as in the case of femorata, and like that species 
it has a distinct black spot below on anterior tarsal segments. The 
middle femora are emarginate and the middle tibia apically on the 
posterior side bears a short spine, which in conjunction with flattened 
and slightly curved base of the metatarsus forms a structure some- 
what similar to the antenna cleaner of the first pair of legs. The 
posterior femora are slightly curved below and distally incrassate, 
but they are not emarginate. The second sternite bears a pair of 
short, pointed, closely approximated tubercles, and there is a smaller, 
inconspicuous pair on each of the third and fourth sternites more 
widely separated than those on the second. The pubescence is 
white, short, and sparse, except on the seventh sternite, where it is 
relatively long, dense, and brown. The eighth sternite lacks a discal 
spine, but there is a longitudinal prominence at the base of the 
middle spine. The genital stipes is distinct in pattern. 

Length.—12-14 mm. 

This species stands very close to femorata Fox, but it differs from 
that species in its more extensive maculations, its richer yellow color, 
and especially in the form of the genital stipes. The species is 
described from two male specimens taken by Mr. F. X. Williams. 

Habitat.—Kansas. 

Type.—Male and paratype in the collection of the University of 


Kansas. 
Genus BICYRTES Lepeletier. 


Bembex Outvier (part), Encycl. Meth., vol. 4, 1789, p. 288. 
Monedula DanuBom (part), Hym. Eur., vol. 1, 1845, p. 492. 
Bicyrtes LEPELETIER, Hist. Nat., vol. 3, 1845, p. 53. 
Type: Bicyrtes (servillii Lepeletier) ventralis Say. Monobasic 
Bembidula Burmeister, Bol. Acad. Cordova, vol. 1, 1874, p. 122. 
Type: Monedula discisa Taschenberg. (Present designation.) 
Bembidula Hanputrrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. Cl., vol. 98, 
1889, p. 473. 
Bembidula Kout, Die Gatt. d. Spheg., 1896, p. 442. 


The head seen from in front is wider than long. The compound 
eyes are large and stongly arched; their inner borders are somewhat 
divergent at the vertex, and their lower borders reach the mandibles. 
The frons is relatively flat, variable in width, and bears a slight carina 
between the antennae. The anterior ocellar cicatrice is situated on a 
slight prominence. It is linear, arcuate, and transversely placed. 
The posterior cicatrices are also linear but not so narrow as the ante- 
rior one, semicircular, and almost longitudinally placed. The 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PAREER. 57 


occiput is quite narrow and the posterior surface of the head vertical 
and flat. The temples are narrow. The mandibles on their anterior 
border are entire; on their posterior border they are provided with 
two teeth and the apex endsin a point. The maxillae are moderately 
long, and when folded at rest they are concealed beneath the labrum. 
The maxillary palpi are formed of six segments and the labial of 
four. The labrum is about as long as broad at the base, somewhat 
arched from side to side and broadly rounded at the apex, not 
emarginate. The clypeus is broad and arched and its lower border 
is slightly curved. 

The antennae are inserted on the frons on either side of the median 
carina a short distance above the base of the clypeus. They consist 
of 12 segments in the female and of 13 in the male. In the case of 
the males of some species some of the flagellar segments show sec- 
ondary sexual modifications that are of use as characters in the dis- 
tinguishing of species. The first flagellar segment (pedicel) is about 
as thick as long and the second exceeds any of the following ones in 
length. 

The dorsum of the thorax is comparatively flat and the collar is 
placed much below the level of the scutum. The tubercles do not 
reach the tegulae. The suture between the sternum and episternum 
of the mesothorax is obliterated. The surface of the metapleura is 
almost at right angles to the long axis of the body and as a result its 
junction with the side of the median segment forms a depression into 
which the femora of the middle leg is drawn when at rest. The 
median segment shows a clearly defined dorsal middlefield which 
extends down upon the posterior surface of the segment. In a man- 
ner that is characteristic of the species of this genus the lateral angles 
of the median segment are extended, strongly compressed and wedge- 
like, and consequently the posterior surface of the segment from side 
to side is conspicuously curved or concave. The tergites are arched, 
the sternites flat, and in general the abdomen appears relatively longer 
and more slender than in Bembiz. In the case of the female of some 
species the ultimate tergite bears a more or less well defined pygidial 
area set off by lateral ridges. The eighth sternite of the male, con- 
cealed beneath the seventh, ends in three spines instead of one as in 
Bembiz. On none of the species so far recorded from North America 
north of Mexico do we find processes on the sternites of the males. 
The male genital apparatus consists of a short basal piece that sub- 
tends the long, strongly hirsute, weakly chitinized, lateral stipites, 
variable in form among the species, the median cleft spatha, which, 
seen from above, ends in a prominent rectangular dilation, and below 
the spatha the sagittae. Each sagitta is composed of two parts; the 
inferior part is straight, relatively slender, weakly chitinized and 
hirsute; the superior part is curved somewhat, strongly chitinized 


58 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


and enlarged at the distal end. This enlargement resembles some- 
what a truncate spoon, the concave surface being faced inward to- 
ward the midline. 

Front wing.—The pterostigma is vestigial. The apical end of the 
radial cell is rounded off and lies on the costal border. Of the three 
cubital cells the first is about as long as the second and third combined. 
The first cubital cross vein is almost straight; the second is almost 
sigmoid in shape; and is far from parallel with the first so that the 
second cubital cell is much narrower on the radial vein than on the 
cubital, on which it receives both discoidal cross ves. The third 
cubital cross vein is quite strongly directed outward and roundly 
curved at its posterior end so that the rounded apical end of the third 
cubital cell frequently extends beyond the end of the radial cell. The 
angle formed by the radial and third cubital cross veins and opening 
outwardly is acute. The second discoidal cross vein posterior to its 
junction with the cubital is angularly bent outward and subtends 
at the angle a short longitudinal vein. The first submedian cell is 
as long or longer than the second, which gradually increases in width 
toward its apical end. The basal vein arises proximal to the termi- 
nus of the first submedian cell. 

Hind wing.—The retinaculum, consisting of an unbroken row of 
small hooklets, begins near the origin of the radial vein, which extends 
distally almost to the apical border of the wing. The median cell is 
extremely long. The cubital vein arises distal to the terminus of 
the submedian cell. The posterior angle of the submedian cell, 
formed by the submedial and submedial cross veins, is, like that of 
Steniolia, obtuse. The submedial vein terminates in the anul sinus. 
The wings, particularly the anterior pair, in both sexes of many 
species are more or less infumated, the infumation being more evi- 
dent in the female than in the male of the same species. The char- 
acter and the degree of infumation is of value in the separation of 
species. 

The legs are relatively long and slender. The middle coxae are 
not contiguous, and on the inner distal margin of the hind pair of 
some species there is a distinct tooth. The middle femora of the 
males of some species are compressed below to a sharp edge and in 
others there is present basally below a prominent, flattened tooth. 
The middle tibia at the distal end is provided with a single spur. 
The anterior tarsus of the female is flattened and provided with a 
strong tarsal comb; in the case of the male, with the exception of a 
few species, the anterior tarsus is not flattened and the tarsal comb 
is but weakly developed. The pulvilli are well developed and the 
claws simple. 

The pubesence is short and sparse, not at all prominent except 
on the vertex. ‘The punctations are evident, fine, and usually uni- 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 59 


form, and their character and distribution on certain areas are used 
as specific characters, but such use is not wholly satisfactory. The 
ground color is black, frequently showing iridesence. The macula- 
tions are usually yellow but the shade of yellow varies greatly among 
the different species, in some almost white, in others very dark and 
in still others it may be tinged or replaced by ferruginous. 

Bicyrtes differs from all related genera in the character of the pos- 
terior surface and the lateral angles of the median segment. Further- 
more, it differs from Bembiz in the number of segments in the palpi, 
in the form of the ocellar cicatrices, in the character of the first 
cubital cross vein, the eighth sternite, the apex of the labrum, and the 
male genitalia; from Microbembex in the number of segments in the 
palpi, the character of the mandibles, the radial cell, and the ocellar 
cicatrices; from Stenolia in the number of segments in the palpi, 
the length of the maxillae, the ocellar cicatrices, and the form of 
the male genitalia; from Stictia and Stictiella in the form of the 
ocellar cicatrices, and the male genitalia. 

The generic synonomy given above was called to my attention 
by Mr. Rowland E. Turner, who writes Mr. S. A. Rohwer as follows: 

Bembidula ventralis Say. A specimen in our collection is labelled ‘‘ Bicyrtes ser- 
villei Lep. compared with type by Spinola.”’ If this is correct Bicyrtes has priority 
over Bembidula, but servillet will sink as a synonym. 

On receipt of this information I made a careful study of Lepeletier’s 
description of Bicyrtes servilla and am convinced that Spinola’s com- 
parison is reliable. I, therefore, feel fully justified in changing the 
name of the genus. 

KEY TO SPECIES. 


Males. 

1. Posterior coxa with tooth on inner distal margin. ...............-------- fodiens. 
PeceecriGn Goma Without LOOtb 42. .2.2'so4d da ade na sleehs dwow vga dee 2. 
2. Middle femora with distinct tooth at base. ............-2.0...6c-ee sen sewe don 3. 
pmaacletemora without tooth at base. .........--.---20il ced bs s oeestdy Sees 4. 
3. Ultimate tergite black; fasciae on tergites narrow ...........-..------- ventralis. 

3. Ultimate tergite with lateral yellow spots; fasciae on tergites relatively broad. 
parata. 
4. Mesopleura more or less conspicuously marked with yellow................-..-. 5. 
4, Mesopleura DOT aS al eaE SEN lS soa my pis oh rg te Sei cc yh ia go PA a otek 7. 
5. Anterior wings heavily clouded in the region of the first cubital cell. . . . vidwata. 
5. Anterior wings without heavily clouded area. ..............----------------- 6. 
6. Fasciae on tergites attenuated medially; the posterior one more widely inter- 

rupted than the anterior one; sixth reduced to widely separated spots. 

quadrifasciata. 
6. Fasciae on tergites scarcely attenuated medially; the posterior one less widely 
interrupted than the anterior one; sixth almost or quite continuous. .annulata, 
7. Anterior wings with heavily clouded area in region of first cubital cell.......-. 8. 
7. Anterior wings without clouded area; infumation, if present, diffused.......... 9. 
8. Dorsum of median segment unmarked; genital stipes as in fig. 123....... gracilis. 
8. Dorsum of median segment with a more or less complete yellow fascia; stipes as 


en E's ng na al alga Ghai gk eee eat hea a IIA i iF a viduata, 


60 


PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


id; 


11. 


Dl ST NT cell el 


or Or 


. Flagellum black; fascia on sixth tergite wanting or reduced to widely separated 


lateral spots; genital stipes as in fig. 118...................---- quadrifasciata. 


. Flagellum not wholly black; fascia on sixth tergite always developed and scarcely 


more widely separated than the other fasciae; genital stipes otherwise formed. .10. 


. Scape, first two joints of flagellum and legs ferrginous; genital stipes as in fig. 127. 


insidiatriz. 


. Scape and first two joints of flagellum not entirely ferruginous; genital stipes 


otherwise; legs black and yellow or black and ferruginous ...........-..... a 
Legs black and ferruginous; markings deep yellow, frequently with dashes of 
RCE oes eco one Sr nec = ening ere Cee oe ee 8 Be ee Eee capnoptera. 
Legs black and yellow; markings pale or creamy yellow, with no trace of ferru- 
BETIS? icy fee? cee! se bps es See «per tiene Ee eee Binns ote = 2 mesillensis. 


Females. 


. Posterior coxa with tooth on inner distal margin ........-........-..----2--.0 2 
 POSPeTION COXA; WithOUL LOOUN o's so aici ale Ne Sain Gigie gee cies +=) Se 3. 
. Fasciae on tergites narrow; ultimate tergite black ..................-.--- fodiens. 
. Fasciae on tergites broad; ultimate tergite yellow................---- burmeistert. 
. Pygidial area on ultimate tergite bordered with distinct lateral ridges. ........ 4, 
. Pygidial area and lateral ridges on ultimate tergite lacking. ........-......... 5. 

. Mesopleurae black; scutum without discal marks; fasciae on tergites interrupted. 


medially and the more posterior ones narrowed laterally EDAD NG sh capnoptera. 


. Mesopleurae yellow or bearing more or less conspicuous yellow markings; scutum 


with a pair of discal marks; fasciae on tergites usually continuous, not narrowed 


Paterna lly 2) St Lola g heel ae w alb's Seabee. Mths cee Me Rae Meee ere elt annulata. 
e Mesopleurae black 2). 22. see a 8). eer: Pel Med oe oe 6. 
. Mesopleurae marked with yellow more or less...........---.-.-------------e-- 7: 
. Flagellum for the most part, legs and apex of ultimate tergite ferruginous; fascia 
on first tergite broad and best developed............0-.-----...-.- insidiatrin. 
. Flagellum black; legs black and yellow or black and ferruginous; apex of ulti- 
mate tergite black; fascia on first tergite narrow and least well developed. 
ventralis. 
. Ultimate tergite black; largest of the species UPI PR GE Rae Pai to MMI Lg 8. 
. Ultimate tergite with lateral maculations; size similar to venéralis..........--.. 9. 


. Anterior wings with clouded area in region of first cubital cell; discal spots on 


seutum largeand tinged. with rufous: s: 6.2.2 2-222 ea ee viduata. 


. Anterior wings not clouded; discal spots on scutum absent or present in the form 


penarrow yellow Limes: (oc cio IE ON ee ee quadrifasciata. 


. Fasciae on all or at least on the fifth tergite continuous; fifth sternite almost 


entirely "yellow es o232 Jee) Pe PEE FD RES OR ee parata. 


. Fasciae on all tergites interrupted; fifth sternite with a pair of scarcely connected 


Abpea Spots. cee Ie TER OSES Ane Bs A I mesillensis. 
BICYRTES FODIENS Handlirsch. 
Figs, 111 "112)"134; 135. 


Bembidula fodiens Hanpuirscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. Cl., 
vol. 98, 1889 p. 497, pl. 2, fig. 14, male, female. 


Male.—Black: Scape below, first and second joints of flagellum 


below, basal half of clypeus, abbreviated anterior and very narrow 
posterior orbits, posterior margin of pronotum including tubercles, 
tegulae, posterior lateral borders of scutum, pair of spots on scutellum, 
transverse fascia on metanotum, lateral angles of median segment, 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 61 


fasciae on tergites 1-6, widely interrupted on first, continuous on 
second, interrupted medially on the remainder, lateral spots on 
sternites 2-5 connected by faint apical lines, tarsi, tibiae, and distal 
extremities of femora, yellow. Wings rather heavily infumated 
somewhat more so than the wings of ventralis. Dorsum of thorax 
and median segment finely, closely, and evenly punctured, punctures 
of mesopleura somewhat larger; ultimate tergite closely and more 
heavily punctured, punctures less numerous on the apical median 
area. Intermediate femora carinate below; short but evident tooth 
on inner distal margin of posterior coxae; second ventral abdominal 
segment bears a short but conspicuous basal median carina. 

Female.—Resembles the male in general appearances and colora- 
tion, and likewise has the characteristic tooth on the inner distal 
margin of the posterior coxae. The ultimate sternite is carinate 
medially and the ultimate tergite bears a pygidial area set off by 
conspicuous lateral ridges and sparingly punctured. The ultimate 
sternite extends beyond the lateral margins of the tergite apically in 
the form of prominent rounded angles. This character distinguishes 
this species from all others except burmeisteri. 

Length.—11-14 mm. 

The variation in the markings or in their color, as far as it is possible 
to judge from the number of specimens at hand, is not great. All 
males and the one female have the labrum black and the clypeus 
yellow with the lower margin bordered more or less widely with black 
which is nearly divided by a V-shaped prolongation of the yellow 
above. On one male the black margin is reduced to an extremely 
narrow apical border. The scape and first two segments of the 
flagellum are yellow below or may be entirely yellow, the extent and 
the intensity of the black above being variable. The anterior orbits 
are broad but greatly shortened above; the posterior are very narrow. 
The thoracic markings are constant; the coxae and trochanters are 
invariably black; the black on the femora varies in the males some- 
what and the posterior tibiae may also be more or less dusky. The 
tibiae and tarsi of the females may be also more or less ferruginous; 
the males show but little of this color. The lateral spots on the 
sternites may or may not be connected by narrow apical lines. The 
fascia of the second tergite is usually continuous, and when not so 
the interruption is very narrow. The fasciae posterior to the second 
are successively more widely interrupted medially, and the more 
posterior ones may also be abbreviated laterally, consequently 
appearing as lateral spots. On one male, however, all the fasciae 
on the tergites, even that on the first, are continuous. 

Habitat.—Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Georgia, Florida, Kansas, 
and Wisconsin. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 8; females, 4. 


62 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


— 


BICYRTES BURMEISTERI Handlirsch. 
Fig. 136. 


Bembidula burmeister Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. 
Cl., vol. 98, 1889, p. 500. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, mandibles except apices, broad 
anterior orbits, posterior orbits, scape, first and second flagellar seg- 
ments almost entirely, posterior border of pronotum and tubercles, 
tegulae, lateral borders of scutum, lateral spots on scutellum, short 
fascia on metanotum, several small spots on dorsum of median seg- 
ment representing a suppressed curved fascia, lateral angles of median 
segment, fascia of first tergite broken into a pair of large lateral and 
a pair of small dorsal spots, broad continuous fasciae on tergites 2-5 
deeply emarginate at anterior middle, ultimate tergite, small lateral 
spots on sternites 2-5 connected by narrow apical lines, apex of sixth 
sternite, femora above, tibiae, and tarsi, yellow. 

The wings are distinctly though diffusely infumated. The flagel- 
lum below and its ultimate segment apically are yellowish. The 
coxae are more or less marked with yellow and the hind pair, as in 
fodiens, are provided with a distinct tooth on the inner apical margin. 
The ultimate sternite bears a longitudinal carina and the corre- 
sponding tergite a well-defined pygidial area set off by distinct lateral 
ridges. The sternite projects beyond the tergite in a manner similar 
to that of fodiens, but it differs in detail from that of fodiens. The 
pubescence is exceedingly short and sparse and the puncturing is 
rather coarse, close, and uniform; it is closest and finest on the 
scutum, more coarse and scattered on the sixth tergite. 

Length.—15 mm. 

I have but a single specimen at hand—a female taken at Browns- 
ville, Texas, by J. C. Crawford. 


BICYRTES VENTRALIS Say. 
Figs. 4, 113, 114, 132. 


Monedula ventralis Say, Exp. St. Peters River, vol. 2, 1824, p. 336, male. 

Bicyrtes servillit LEPELETIER, Hist. Nat., vol. 3, 1845, p. 53. 

Monedula ventralis Cresson (part), Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 4, 1872, p. 220. 

Monedula ventralis ProvaNncHER, Faun. Ent. Can., 1883, p. 629, female, male. 

Bembidula ventralis Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. 
Cl., vol. 98, 1889, p. 495. 


Male.—Black: Scape of antennae below, broad abbreviated ante- 
rior orbits, narrow posterior orbits, posterior margin of pronotum 
including the tubercles, rounded lateral spots on scutellum, line on 
metanotum, lateral angles of median segment, narrow fasciae on 
tergites 1-5 narrowly interrupted medially, lateral triangular spots 
on sternites 2—5, distal extremities of the femora, tibiae except more 
or less of the posterior surfaces, tarsi, yellow. Face silvery when 


no. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 63 


viewed with light at proper angle; wings somewhat infumated; eyes 
divergent at vertex. Punctures of dorsal surface fine, close and even, 
those of median segment somewhat larger; punctures of mesopleurae 
and dorsal surface of last abdominal segment coarser and not so 
closely and evenly distributed. Joints 7-9 of flagellum prominently 
rounded out below; intermediate femur with a prominent tooth pos- 
teriorly at base; hind tibia with a carina on inner side of distal half. 

Female.—In coloration and general appearance similar to the male 
with such exceptions as are pointed out below. The ultimate tergite 
is devoid of all traces of lateral ridges or of a pygidial area; on the 
ultimate sternite there is a median longitudinal carina. 

Length.—10-16 mm. 

This is the most widely distributed species in the United States. 
The color of the markings varies from deep intense orange-yellow, 
through lighter shades of yellow to light creamy white, and this 
variation in color is true for both sexes. There is great variation 
also in the extent of the markings. In the female usually the greater 
part of the clypeus is yellow, but in many specimens it is reduced to 
a small area near the base. In some specimens the yellow covers 
almost the entire clypeus, but even in such cases the apical margin 
is black. In the male the clypeus is usually black but in many speci- 
mens there are two small yellow spots basally and in others only one, 
which varies in extent. In the male I found the labrum invariably 
black; among the many females examined only four showed any 
trace of yellow on the labrum. The coxae, trochanters, and the 
greater part (basal) of the femora are black. The color of the tibiae 
and tarsi varies greatly, showing shades varying from yellow through 
ferruginous to almost black in a few specimens. The scutum is 
unmarked except that in some individuals there is a short line at the 
posterior lateral borders. Two females show on the dorsal surface 
of the median segment small yellow spots suggesting a suppressed 
curved line thereon. The fasciae on the tergites vary somewhat in 
width and on 3, 4, and 5 may be interrupted laterally; in the males 
this is frequently true for tergites 3, 4, 5, and 6. On the first tergite 
the fascia may be much reduced or wholly lacking, especially in the 
male. The lateral spots on sternites 2-5 in the female and 2-6 in 
the male may or may not be joined by faint yellowish apical bands. 

Habitat.—Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Pennsyl- 
vania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, 
Canada, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Colorado, Wash- 
ington, Oregon, California, and Texas. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 107; females, 126. 


64 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


BICYRTES PARATA Provancher. 
Figs. 115, 116. 


Monedula parata ProvancuER, Add. Hym. Quebec, 1888, p. 416. 
Bembidula parata Fox, Proc. Acad. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 353. 
Bembidula meliloti Ronwer, Ent. News, vol. 19, 1908, p. 376, male. 


Male.—Black: Scape and first two joints of flagellum beneath, 
large spot on clypeus, frequently spot on base of mandibles, broad 
abbreviated anterior and narrow posterior orbits, posterior margin 
of pronotum including tubercles, tegulae anteriorly, lateral stripe on 
scutum at base of anterior wing, rounded lateral spots on scutellum, 
transverse fascia on metanotum, lateral angles of median segment, 
broad fasciae on tergites 1-6, the more anterior of which, and in some 
specimens all, may be narrowly interrupted medially, triangular 
lateral spots on apical tergite, lateral spots on sternites 2-6, which 
may or may not be connected by apical bands, tarsi, tibiae, and 
femora distally, yellow or greenish yellow. Wings clear; eyes diver- 
gent at vertex; punctures of dorsum of thorax fine, close, and even, 
those of median segment somewhat larger; punctures of mesopleurae 
and apical tergite coarser and less evenly distributed. Segments 
6-10 of flagellum rounded out below; intermediate femora with 
tooth at base posteriorly; hind tibiae with carina on inner surface of 
apical half. 

Female.—In general appearance and coloration similar to the male: 
Clypeus and labrum entirely, spot on mesopleura variable in size, 
usually pair of discal spots on scutum, more or less well-developed 
curved line on dorsal surface of median segment, fasciae on tergites 
1-5 broad, all of which may be continuous, lateral spots or the entire 
surface of sixth tergite, lateral spots on sternites broadly connected, 
apical sternite usually in part, and sometimes entirely, yellow. Apical 
tergite without pygidial area or lateral ridges, apical sternite with 
faint longitudinal median carina. 

Length.—12-15 mm. 

The clypeus, on both males and females, may be wholly yellow or 
may have only a narrow apical border of black. In specimens on 
which all or only part of the fasciae on the tergites are continuous, 
such fasciae are more or less deeply emarginate anteriorly in the 
middle. The apical sternite of the male and occasionally of the 
female lacks the yellow spots; usually in the female these spots are 
large and may be confluent or the entire segment may be yellow. 
The extent of the yellow on the sternites of the female is variable. 
On one specimen the venter of the abdomen is almost entirely yellow; 
on another the bands on sternites 2—4 are almost interrupted medially, 
and on all the fifth is almost completely yellow. 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 65 


This species was described by Provancher from a single specimen 
from California, and in view of the fact that this specimen was a 
female the following statement by Fox with regard to this species is 
not clear: ! 

The maculation of this species is a much richer yellow than in ventralis, and the 
female, which has been heretofore unnoticed, is very much like the male and has a 
well developed pygidium. 

As a matter of fact, the female has no pygidial area whatever and 
up to the time Fox published his Synopsis the male had not been 
described. The first account of the male is found in Rohwer’s 
description of B. meliloti, which I consider identical with the male of 
parata, since it differs not at all from the latter in structure or in 
color pattern and since the series before me shows a well-marked 
gradation from the bright yellow at one extreme to the greenish white 
of meliloti at the other. 

Habitat.—California, Washington, Arizona, and Utah. 

Number of specimens—Males, 9; females, 6. 


BICYRTIS QUADRIFASCIATA Say. 
Figs. 117, 118. 


Monedula quadrifasciata Say, Expd. St. Peters River, vol. 2, 1824, p. 336, male, 
female. 

Monedula salleti GuErtn, Icon. du Regne Anim., vol. 7, Insect, 1845, p. 437. 

Bembidula quadrifasciata Hanputrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissnsch. Wien, Math.-Nat. 
Cl., vol. 98, 1889, p. 492. 

Bembidula variegata Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 353. 


Male.—Black: Scape below, apical border of clypeus variable in 
extent, medial stripe on labrum variable in width or sometimes want- 
ing, spot on base of mandible, broad anterior orbits abbreviated 
above, narrow posterior orbits, posterior margin of pronotum, spot on 
side of prothorax, tubercles, pair of small rounded lateral spots on 
scutellum, lateral angles of median segment, fasciae on tergites 1-5 
interrupted and attenuated medially, those on 4 and 5 shortened lat- 
erally, frequently lateral spots on 6, small lateral spots on sternites 
2-5, small spot on anterior coxa below, distal ends of femora below 
most extensive on anterior pair, tibiae except stripe on posterior pair 
above, tarsi except tips of segments on second and third pairs, which 
are more or less dusky, yellow. Wings slightly infumated; legs with- 
out special structures. 

Female.—Black: Scape below, clypeus except spot of variable size 
at base, labrum except sometimes the lateral borders, spot on base 
of mandible, broad anterior orbits abbreviated above, narrow poste- 
rior orbits, posterior margin of pronotum, spot on side of prothorax, 
tubercles, narrow lateral line on extreme sides of scutum, frequently 


1 Synopsis of Bembicini of Boreal America, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 353. 
65008°—Proc.N.M.vol.52—17 5 


66 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


a pair of discal marks on same, spot on tegulae, another on base of 
anterior wing, pair of lateral spots on scutellum, pair of spots on 
metanotum, occasionally a curved line on dorsal surface of median 
segment, lateral angles of same, one or two spots on mesopleura, 
fasciae on tergites 1-4 interrupted and narrowed medially, lateral 
spots on sternites 2-3, spot on anterior coxae below, stripe on lower 
surface of femora less extensive on posterior pair, tibiae, and tarsi, 
yellow; wings as in the male; apical tergite densely punctured later- 
ally, more sparingly along the midline, lateral ridges short and feebly 
developed, pygidial area lacking; apical sternite with faint longitu- 
dinal median carina. 

Length.—12-14 mm. 

This is one of our largest and most easily recognized species. The 
ground color is decidedly black and shows a marked bluish irides- 
cence. The color of the markings is pale or creamy yellow, sometimes 
tinged with orange, more rarely faintly greenish. The yellow of head, 
thorax, and legs is usually deeper than that of the abdomen. The 
scape of the antenna is always yellow below and the flagellum is 
always black, save that the apical joint in some females shows a trace — 
of reddish. ‘The flagellar segments of the male are not rounded out 
or prominent below, but joints 6-10 have flattened specialized areas 
beneath, most conspicuous on 6 and 7. The marking of the labrum 
varies greatly; on the female it is usually yellow with the lateral 
margins piceous, but in a few specimens it is entirely yellow and in 
about as many it is wholly black. In the male the labrum is usually 
black, but in some individuals only the lateral borders are black, and 
in a few it is entirely yellow. The clypeus is marked basally with 
a black spot that varies in size in both sexes and is usually more 
extensive in the male than in the female, but in all cases there is 
always more or less yellow on the apical border. 

The line on the posterior border of the pronotum may be wanting, 
may be represented by two or more spots, or may be broad and con- 
spicuous. The scutum may be immaculate, may have a small spot 
on each lateral margin, which in some cases takes the form of a rather 
broad lateral stripe, and in some specimens may bear a pair of short 
discal lines or spots. In specimens on which the markings are best 
developed a pair of lateral spots occurs on both scutellum and meta- 
notum, and in extreme cases there is a more or less well developed 
curved line on the dorsal surface of the median segment. In such 
specimens the small spots on the mesopleura form one large conflu- 
ent area, and a smaller spot may be present on the metapleura. All 
coxae may be more or less spotted with yellow. The color of the 
fasciae and spots on the tergites, together with their arrangement 
are the characters that best distinguish this species. The fasciae are 
broad at the sides and narrowed toward the median line, where they 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 67 


are narrowly interrupted anteriorly, more widely posteriorly; the 
anterior ones well developed, the posterior abbreviated; present on 
1-4 and sometimes 5 in the female, on 1-5 and sometimes 6 in the 
male. The lateral spots on the sternites vary in size and also in 
number. They are usually found on 2-4 in the female, but occasion- 
ally are present on 5; in the males on 2-5, but may occur on 6 or be 
reduced to 2-4. In the case of two very light females from Kansas 
the lateral spots are present on 1-5 and sternite 2 is almost entirely 
yellow. 

The terminal tergite of the female lacks a pygidial area, but short, 
feebly marked lateral ridges are present. The apical sternite is lon- 
gitudinally carinate on the median line and throughout its apical half 
it narrowly extends laterally beyond the tergite, which is roundly 
triangular apically. 

Two males, which I have referred to this species, were collected by 
Mr. Ashmead in New Mexico and were referred by Fox to B. variegata 
Olivier. These males differ from the typical male of quadrifasciata 
only in the possession of more extensive maculations; in other re- 
pects, including the genitalia, there is no essential difference. 
B. variegata Olivier was described from South America, and the genital 
stipites of the male are quite different from those of guadrifasciata, as 
is shown by a comparison of figures 117, 118, 119 and 120, of which 
119 and 120 represent the stipites of a male of variegata taken in Vene- 
zuela. 

Hatitat.—Florida, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Virginia, 
Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Indiana, Ohio, 
Wisconsin, Kansas, and New Mexico. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 28; females, 23. 


BICYRTES ANNULATA, new species. 
Figs. 121, 122, 137. 


Female.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, mandibles except apices, scape 
except spot on upper side, first jomt of flagellum below, second al- 
most entirely, lower part of frons, narrow vertical line in front of 
anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, posterior orbits narrowed 
above, broad below, and extended somewhat upon the vertex toward 
the posterior ocelli, prothorax except narrow anterior border con- 
nected with spot in front of tubercles, tegulae, broad lateral lines 
on scutum, pair of discal spots on same, pair of large lateral spots 
on scutellum approximated at median line, metanotum, curved 
fascia on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles of median seg- 
ment, mesopleurae almost completely, spot on metapleurae, broad 
fasciae on tergites 1-5, continuous but with an acute triangular 
emargination medially, fasciae on sternites 2-5 continuous, triangular 
lateral spots on ultimate tergite, ultimate sternite, and legs almost 
entirely, bright yellow. The coxae basally are more or less marked 


68 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. vot. 52. 


with black; the trochanters and proximal ends of the femora are 
more or less suffused with ferruginous. The wings are very slightly 
infumated. 

Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, spot 
between antennae, scape except spot above, basal segments of 
flagellum more or less, broad anterior orbits, narrow posterior orbits, 
posterior margin of pronotum broadly including tubercles, tegulae, 
lateral borders of scutum, pair of discal marks on same rarely absent, 
large lateral spots on scutellum, narrowly connected in one specimen, 
metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median segment more or less 
broken, lateral angles of medium segment, one or more spots on 
mesopleurae, fasciae on tergites 1-6 broad, narrowly interrupted 
medially, the first narrowed somewhat medially, fasciae on sternites 
continuous but greatly narrowed medially, spot on all coxae, re- 
mainder of legs except more or less of trochanters and base of femora, 
bright yellow. The wings are but slightly ifumated, less so than in 
the case of capnoptera. The flagellum is somewhat ferruginous and 
without conspicuous modifications, although segments 4-11 bear 
specialized areas similar to those of capnoptera. The intermediate 
femora and the genital stipes are likewise similar to those of capnotera. 

Length.—14-16 mm. 

This species stands close to capnoptera Handlisch, but differs from 
it in the presence of mesopleural markings, greater clearness of the 
wings and the better development of the abdominal fasciae. On the 
type (male) of the species the abdominal fasciae are broad and con- 
tinuous, really forming continuous rings around the body, hence the 
name, annulata. On the allotype (female) all the dorsal fasciae are 
interrupted except the sixth. The ultimate tergite of the female bears 
a pair of well marked lateral ridges inclosing a pygidial area slightly 
rugose basally and sparingly punctate elsewhere. The lateral areas 
bear short scattered spines or bristles. The ultimate sternite through- 
out its apical half extends out laterally beyond the tergite as shown 
in figure 137. On the type the lateral areas of the ultimate tergite 
and the corresponding sternite are yellow, but in some specimens the 
ultimate segment is black both above and below, while in others the 
proportions of black and yellow vary. 

Habitat—Arizona, New Mexico, Texas. 

Number of specimens examined—Males 4; females, 13. 

Type.—¥emale in the collection of University of Kansas, Paratype, 
Cat. No. 19678, U.S.N.M. 


BICYRTES GRACILIS, new species. 
Fig. 123. 


Male.—Black: Clypeus except narrow apical border, mandibles 
except tips, crescent shaped spot on frons below antennae, scape 


No.2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 69 


below, broad anterior orbits shortened and narrowed above, narrow 
posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum including tubercles, 
pair of short narrow discal lines on scutum, short lateral lines on 
same above base of anterior wing, spot on base of anterior wings, 
tegulae, pair of rounded lateral spots on scutellum, narrow transverse 
curved fascia on metanotum, lateral angles of median segment, 
fasciae on tergites 1-6 rather widely interrupted medially, triangular 
lateral spots on sternites 2—5, distal extermity and short longitudinal 
stripe on anterior and posterior edge of anterior femora, anterior 
tibiae except stripe on posterior surface and below, anterior tarsus 
above, extreme distal ends of middle and posterior femora, greater 
part of intermediate tibiae below, and part of the posterior tibia 
below, yellow or slightly greenish yellow. Anterior wings with a 
heavily infumated spot in region of first cubital cell. 

The black color of the body is intense, shining and shows a 
beautiful bluish-violet iridescence. The punctures of the thorax are 
fine, close, and evenly distributed; those of the apical tergite some- 
what larger, closely placed basally but more widely separated on 
the apex especially on the middle area. Antennae and legs show no 
peculiar modifications. The fascia on the first tergite is slightly 
shortened laterally, much attenuated medially, and more widely 
interrupted than the others; second slightly attenuated medially; 
third and fourth narrowed, and fifth and sixth interrupted laterally. 
The middle and posterior tarsi are almost black, the distal ends of 
the segments showing traces of ferruginous. The face when viewed 
at the proper angle shows a silvery reflection. 

This species resembles quite closely the male of viduata, but it is 
smaller and more slender than that species, the markings are less well 
developed and the genital stipes are quite different. 

Halhitat.—Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona (coll. F. H. Snow.) 

Number of specimens examined: Males, 1. 

Type.—The collection of the University of Kansas. 


BICYRTES VIDUATA Handlirsch. 
Figs. 124, 125. 


Bembidula viduata Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math. -Nat. Cl., 

vol. 98, 1889, p. 491, female. 

Male.—Black: Clypeus, base of madibles, frons below insertion of 
antennae, scape below, anterior orbits not reaching to vertex, narrow 
posterior orbits, posterior margin of pronotum including the tuber- 
cles, spot on tegula, narrow lateral line on either side the scutum 
above base of anterior wing, pair of discal spots on scutum near 
anterior margin variable in size, one or two spots on mesopleura, 
pair of rounded lateral spots on scutellum, transverse fascia on 
metanotum, more or less complete curved fascia on dorsal surface 


70 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


of median segment, lateral angles of same, broad fasciae on tergites 
1-6 interrupted medially, slightly attenuated medially on 1 and 2, 
and attenuated or interrupted laterally on 2-6, triangular lateral 
spots on sternites 2-5 joined by faint apical lines, tips of femora with 
short line extending inward on anterior and posterior surfaces of 
anterior pair, tibiae except a part or all of the posterior surface of 
the several pairs, anterior tarsi, yellow. Anterior wings with a 
heavily infumated spot in region of first cubital cell; antennae and 
legs without special modifications. 

Female.—Black: Clypeus, base of mandibles, frons below antennae, 
scape below, anterior orbits not reaching to vortex, posterior orbits 
narrowed above, posterior margin of pronotum including tubercles, 
lateral lines on scutum, pair of large diamond-shaped discal spots on 
same anteriorly, large spot on mesopleura, pair of large rounded spots 
onscutellum, metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median segment, 
lateral angles of same, broad fasciae on tergites 1-5 interrupted medially, 
first greatly and second slightly attenuated toward median line and 
second to fifth attenuated laterally, triangular lateral spots on 
sternites 2-5, spot on anterior coxae, tips of femora with line both 
above and below on anterior pair, tibiae except more or less of poste- 
rior surfaces, anterior tarsi, yellow. Anterior wings with heavily in- 
fumated spot in region of first cubital cell; apical tergite without 
pygidial area, sparingly punctured medially, more closely laterally, 
especially at base, lateral ridges short and feebly developed; apical 
sternite with faint median carina. 

Length.—16-18 mm. 

In coloration the males and females of this large and handsome 
species are very much alike, the markings being a rich yellow in the 
females and creamy yellow in the males. But little variation is 
found. The clypeus is predominantly yellow; in the male it is almost 
invariably so and in the female the black is confined to the apical 
margin, where it forms a more or less conspicuous border, or may 
appear as two small median spots. The discal spots on the scutum, 
variable in size and form, show in the majority of specimens a de- 
cided rufous color, which color may also appear on the spots on the 
mesopleurae. The median segment bears on its dorsal surface a 
curved yellow fascia, broad and conspicuous in the female, much re- 
duced in width or present as a series of spots in the male. The 
fasciae on the tergites are all rather widely interrupted. The first is 
much narrowed medially, the second less so. Contrary to the origi- 
nal description all these fasciae except the first and occasionally the 
the last, reach the border of the segments even in the males, in which 
the fasciae are narrower than in the females. The lateral spots on 
the sternites may or may not be connected by narrow apical bands. 
The antennae of the male show no evident modifications but segments 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 71 


5-11 of the flagellum bear on their lower surfaces specialized areas 
scarcely at all prominent and difficult to distinguish. The large size, 
conspicuous fasciae of the abdomen together with the thoracic mark- 
ings, and the medial dark spot on the anterior pair of wings distin- 
guish this species at once from all other members of the genus herein 
described. 

Habitat.—Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and probably Mexico. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 7; females, 8. 


BICYRTES INSIDIATRIX Handlirsch. 
Figs. 126, 127. 


? Monedula ventralis CRESSON (part), Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 4, 1872, p. 220. 
Bembidula insidiatrix Hanpurrsca, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.- Nat. 
Cl., vol. 98, 1889, p. 494, female, male. 

Male.—Black: Clypeus except apical border, broad anterior orbits, 
narrow posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum including tuber- 
cles, lateral stripes on scutum not reaching anterior border, usually a 
pair of discal lines or spots on same, pair of lateral spots on scutellum 
more or less approximated at median line, transverse fascia on meta- 
notum, lateral angles of median segment, fasciae on tergites 1-6 nar- 
rowly interrupted medially, sometimes first or first and second con- 
tinuous, lateral spots on sternites 2-3, yellow. Labrum, mandibles 
except tips, scape, first and second joints of flagellum, remainder of 
flagellum more or less, legs except coxae, ferruginous. Wings in- 
fumated about the same as the wings of ventralis. - Intermediate 
femora carinate but not dentate. ° 

Female.—Black: Clypeus except apical border, broad anterior and 
narrow posterior orbits, lateral lines on scutum not reaching the an- 
terior border, usually a pair of discal spots or lines on same, pair of 
large lateral spots on scutellum, curved fascia on dorsum of median 
segment (sometimes absent), lateral angles of same, fasciae on tergites 
1-5 narrowly interrupted medially, first or first and second continuous, 
lateral spots on sternites 2-4, yellow. Scape, first and second joints 
of flagellum, remainder of flagellum more or less, labrum, mandibles 
except tips and usually a spot on base, tegulae, apex of ultimate 
abdominal segment above and below, legs except coxae, ferruginous. 
Wings somewhat more heavily infumated than those of the male; 
ultimate tergite without a pygidial area or lateral lines; ultimate 
sternite faintly carinate. 

Length.—12-14 mm. 

The labrum and mandibles, especially among the males, may be 
black; the ferruginous markings elsewhere, especially on the legs, 
may vary from almost yellow to nearly black. The dark area on the 
clypeus always arises from the apical border, never from the base. 
The scape below may be more or less yellowish; the flagellum of the 


712 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. vor. 52. 


male is for the most part black, that of the female largely ferrugi- 
nous. One female bears a yellow spot on the mesopleurae. The facia 
on the first tergite is broadest and all are but shghtly narrowed toward 
the median line; they do not reach the lateral edge of the segments 
and the more posterior ones may appear as elongated lateral spots. 

The female of his species may be distinguished from the female of 
ventralis by the presence of the ferruginous markings on the legs, 
antennae, and terminal segment and also by the fact that the first ab- 
dominal fascia is the one best developed in this species and most re- 
duced in ventralis; from fodiens and capnoptera by the absence of a 
pygidial area and lateral lines on the ultimate tergite. The male can 
be distinguished from ventralis by the absence of a tooth on the inter- 
mediate femora; from fodiens by the absence of a tooth on the posterior 
coxae, and from canoptera by the form of the genital stipes. 

Habitat.—Texas, Florida, New Mexico. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 6; females, 5. 


BICYRTES CAPNOPTERA Handlirsch. 
Figs. 128, 129, 133, 138. 


? Monedula ventralis Cresson (part), Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 4, 1872, p. 220. 
Bembidula capnoptera Hanvurescu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.- Nat. C1., 
vol. 98, 1889, p. 497, pl. 2, figs. 7, 12, female, male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum (in some specimens ferruginous, in others 
black), clypeus (may be wholly or in part black), scape below, basal 
joints of flagellum below, anterior orbits, narrow posterior border of 
pronotum continuous with tubercles and narrow line on side of 
prothorax, lateral lines on scutum above base of wings, tegulae, 
lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, lateral angles of 
median segment, fasciae on tergites 1-6 all interrupted medially, 
the more posterior ones usually shortened or narrowed laterally, 
lateral spots on sternites 2-6, which may be connected by narrow 
apical lines, yellow more or less dashed or suffused with ferruginous. 
Legs ferruginous with the coxae and more or less of the basal part of 
the femora much darker, sometimes black. 

Segments 4-11 of the flagellum have raised specialized areas on 
the posterior surface, which, when viewed from a certain angle, 
cause the flagellum to appear slightly carinate. The wings as in 
ventralis are strongly infumated. The femora of the second pair of 
legs are not toothed but are carinate and slightly angular at the 
base below. 

Female.—Black: Clypeus, labrum usually, spot between antennae, 
scape below, basal segments of flagellum below, anterior orbits, 
narrow posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum continuous 
with tubercles and line on side of prothorax, lateral lines on scutum 
above base of wings, lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on metano- 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 5: 


tum, lateral angles of median segment, fasciae on tergites 1-5 inter- 
rupted medially and the more posterior ones shortened laterally, 
lateral spots on sternites 2-5 usually connected by narrow apical 
lines, yellow, more or less dashed or suffused with ferruginous. The 
legs are ferruginous, the basal joints usually darker than other parts 
but not so black as in the male. 

The flagellum is more or less ferruginous, especially below, but in 
some specimens it is almost entirely black. The wings are heavily 
infumated, especially in the case of specimens from Georgia. The 
sixth tergite bears a well-defined pygidial area, set off by distinct 
lateral ridges as shown in figure 138. 

Length.—10-15 mm. 

This species shows considerable variation. In the female the 
clypeus is invariably yellow, but the labrum varies from yellow 
through ferruginous to black; in the male the clypeus may be 
entirely yellow or entirely black, but is usually black with a yellow 
apical border. The labrum of the male is generally black. Variation 
in the maculations is less pronounced, though the dorsal markings 
on the abdomen of the females from Texas are much better developed 
than are those on the females from Georgia. On one female from 
Texas there is a small pair of discal marks on the dorsulum. In no 
case do we find the mesopleurae maculated in either sex and rarely 
the dorsum of the median segment. 

Habitat.—Georgia, Texas, Kansas. 

Number of specimens—Males, 9; females, 8. 


BICYRTES MESILLENSIS Cockerell. 
Figs. 130, 181. 


Bembiduta capnoptera HANDiIRSCH, var. mesillensis COCKERELL, Davenport Acad. 
Nat. Sci., vol. 7, 1898, p. 142. 
Bembidula mesillensis CocKERELL, Can. Ent., 1899, p. 255. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, irregular spot on base of mandibles, 
apical half of clypeus, scape below, broad anterior orbits not reaching 
vertex, narrow posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum includ- 
ing tubercles, narrow lateral lines on scutum above base of anterior 
wing, lateral spots on scutellum, transverse fascia on metanotum, 
lateral angles of median segment, comparatively broad fasciae on 
tergites 1-6 interrupted medially, the first broadest and slightly 
attenuated medially, the remainder attenuated but not shortened 
laterally, lateral spots on sternites 2-6 united by faint lines on apical 
margins of sternites, distal extremities of femora, most obvious on 
first pair, tibiae, and tarsi, yellow. First and second joint of flagellum 
yellowish below, remainder below ferruginous; wings slightly infu- 
mated, darkest at apical end of median cell of anterior wing; antennae 
with slightly prominent specialized areas on segments 4-12 below; 


74 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


carina of intermediate femora and genital stipes similar to those of 
capnoptera. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, broad anterior orbits not reaching vertex, narrow posterior 
orbits, posterior border of pronotum including tubercles, lateral lines 
on scutum not reaching anterior margin, tegulae, spot on base of 
anterior wings, one large and two smaller spots on mesopleurae, 
rounded lateral spots on scutellum, transverse fascia on metanotum, 
four spots (a suppressed curved line) on dorsum of median segment, 
lateral angles of same, broad fasciae on tergites 1-5, interrupted 
medially, first greatly and second slightly narrowed medially, small 
lateral spots on ultimate tergite, triangular lateral spots on sternites 
2-5 connected by narrow apical lines, spot on anterior coxae below, 
pale creamy yellow. Coxae (except anterior pair) and trochanters 
entirely black; femora with more or less of the distal part yellow; 
tibiae yellow with very dark spot below on first and second pairs; 
tarsi tawny yellow. Wings somewhat infumated, slightly darker 
than those of the male but not so dark as those of ventralis. The 
ultimate tergite lacks lateral ridges and a pygidial area. 

Length.—15 mm. 

A female from Texas has the mandibles and labrum black with 
faint pale yellowish markings basally; another, from Arizona, has a 
pair of discal spots on the scutum, small lateral spots on prothorax 
and a very large spot on mesopleurae. A male from Arizona has the 
labrum ferruginous, the yellow on the clypeus restricted to two 
lateral apical spots, a pair of small lateral spots on the dorsum of the 
median segment, and the black on the femora much reduced in 
extent and intensity. 

The male of this species is very similar to the male of capnoptera 
Handlirsch with which it agrees with respect to the character of the 
intermediate femora and the development of the antennae. It differs 
from that species only in the color of its maculations and to a slight 
degree in the form of the genital stipes. The female, however, is 
quite closely allied to parata and ventralis, from which it may be 
distinguished only by the character and color of its maculations. It 
differs markedly from capnoptera in the absence of lateral ridges and 
a pygidial area. The association of a male and female of such diver- 
gent relationships as sexes of the same species without biological 
evidence to sustain it is open to question. I have retained them, 
however, as sexes of the same species since they have been so asso- 
ciated and since I have no data to show that such association is not 
the correct one. 

Habitat—New Mexico, Arizona, Texas. 

Number of specimens examined.—Males, 4; females, 3. 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 75 


Genus BEMBIX Fabricius. 


Apis LINNAEUS, Syst. Nat., ed. 10, vol. 1, 1758, p. 574. 
Bembiz Fasricius, Syst. Ent., Char. Gen., 1775, No. 115. 
Bembyx Fasrictius, Syst. Ent., 1775, p. 361, No. 115. 
Bembex} Fasricius, Gen. Insect, 1776 (or 1777), p. 122. 
Bembex OutvieR, Encycl. Meth., vol. 4, 1789, p. 288. 
Bembex Fasricivus, Ent. Syst., vol. 2, 1793, p. 247. 
Bembex LATREILLE, Gen. Crust. et Ins., vol. 4, 1809, p. 97. 
Monedula DautBom, Hym. Eur., vol. 1, 1845, p. 492. 
Bembex Hanvuirscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. Cl., vol. 102, 
Abth. 1, 1893, p. 663. 
Bembex Kout, Die. Gatt. d. Spheg., 1896, p. 430. 

Type.—Apis rostrata Linnaeus, designated by Latreille 1810, or 
more recently by Morice and Durant 1915. 

The wasps belonging to this genus vary from 12 to 22 millimeters 
in length and are comparatively robust in build. The head is as 
broad as the thorax or even slightly broader in some species. The 
compound eyes are large, convex, naked, and the facets are of uniform 
size. The inner margins of the eyes are usually almost parallel, but 
in some species they diverge toward the vertex and in others toward 
the clypeus, consequently the shape of the frons is not constant in 
the genus. The lower margin of the eye reaches the base of the mandi- 
ble. The anterior ocellar cicatrix is linear, transverse, and slightly 
curved; the posterior pair are also linear, not transverse, and more 
nearly semicircular. In at least two species the ocelli are fairly 
well developed and are probably functional. The occiput is very 
narrow and the precipitous posterior surface of the head is somewhat 
concave. The temples are moderately developed but not as broad 
as the eye seen from the side. 

The mandible is well developed and the outer border is entire; 
the inner border bears one or two teeth, the development of which 
in a few species is decidedly weak. The apex ends in a single point. 
The maxillae are relatively long, but when folded at rest they are 
concealed beneath the labrum. The maxillary palpi consist of four 
segments, the: labial of two. The labrum is beaklike, much longer 
than broad, and is deeply emarginate at the apex. In some species 
it bears a transverse impression above which it shows a slight median 
prominence. The clypeus is broad and convex and its distal margin 
curved. The antennae are inserted on the frons quite near its lower 
border and the distance between them is about equal to the distance 
from the antenna to the margin of the adjacent eye. The scape is 
thicker, heavier and usually, but not invariably, longer than any 
of the flagellar segments. The first segment of the flagellum (pedicel) 

1 This is an obvious emendation of the more correctly formed name Bembiz. The mentioning of Bember 
signata at the bottom of the page is intended to enlarge the generic description so as to include the species 


that were later separated into the genus Stictia, and can not be construed as limiting the genus to those 
species congeneric with signata. 


76 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


is small, rounded, not longer than thick, and the second segment 
exceeds in length any of those following it. In the male, except in 
the case of a few species, the flagellum bears secondary sexual modifi- 
cations that serve as specific characters. They consist of pits, 
spines, dilations, curvings, etc., on various flagellar segments. 

The thorax is strong, compact, and flattened above. The prothorax 
is never strongly developed; the collar is much below the level of 
the scutum and the tubercles do not reach the tegulae. The sternum 
and episternum of the mesothorax are fused, leaving no suture. 
The junction of the metapleura and the side of the median segment 
forms a depression into which the femur of the middle leg is drawn 
when at rest. The median segment is short and its dorsal surface is 
lower than that of the thorax. The dorsal median area, or middle- 
field, is definitely set off by oblique sutures and is broadly continued 
down upon the almost vertical posterior surface of the segment. The 
lateral angles are usually somewhat prominent but are always rounded, 
never angular or wedge-like. 

In general appearance the abdomen is relatively compact and 
robust, more rarely somewhat slender. The tergites are strongly 
arched, the sternites flat. The ultimate tergite of the female is 
somewhat conical in form, rarely with a pygidial area differentiated, 
for the most part hirsute and provided with short lateral spines near 
the base, usually punctate, but in a few cases more or less strongly 
rugose. The second sternite of the male may or may not bear a 
more or less well developed process, but the sixth, except in a very 
few species, always does so. The form of these processes affords 
specific characters. The seventh also varies in development and 
the eighth, which is concealed by the seventh, ends in a single spine. 

The male genital armature consists of a short basal piece (cardo), 
which bears the lateral stipites, the median cleft spatha and below 
this the sagittae. The stipes, which alone is figured in the accompany- 
ing plates, and which should never be left out of consideration in 
the determining of species, is prominent and variable in form, accord- 
ing to the pattern of which the species may be separated into groups. 
Its variation in form among the groups is very marked. Its variation 
within the different groups is sometimes very slight, so that, unless 
it is supported by other characters, simply a slight variation in the 
form of the stipes can not be regarded as safe ground on which to 
separate species, for slight variations in the stipes occur among 
individuals that are manifestly members of the same species. The 
median cleft spatha terminates below in a pair of recurved hooks 
that vary in form among the species and at a short distance proximal 
to these hooks is a pair of short, sharply pointed, barb like teeth. 
Below the spatha lie the sagittae, each of which is composed of two 
parts, the one short, pointed, straight, and strongly hirsute; the 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 77 


other longer, curved, laterally compressed, strongly chitinized, 
smooth, and variable in form at the apex. 

In the majority of the species the wings are hyaline, but in a few 
species they are more or less strongly infumated, the infumation being 
less evident in the wings of the male than in those of the female of 
the same species. In the anterior wing the radial cell, pointed at the 
proximal end and blunt at the distal end, lies on the costal border. 
The first cubital cell is about as long as the second and third com- 
bined. The second cubital cell is narrower on the radial vein than 
on the cubitus and receives both discoidal cross veins. The first 
cubital cross vein in nearly all species just before it joins the cubitus 
bends strongly toward the proximal end of the wing. The third 
cubital cross vein is roundly curved outward toward the distal end 
of the wing and with the radial vein forms a right or obtuse angle 
opening toward the distal border of the wing. The second sub- 
medial cell is as long as the first, or a trifle longer, and gradually 
increases in width toward the distal end of the cell. The basal vein 
arises just proximal to the distal end of the first submedial cell. 

On the posterior wing the retinaculum, as in related genera, is 
formed of an uninterrupted row of little hooklets beginning distal to 
the origin of the radial vein, which is prolonged and reaches almost 
to the distal border of the wing. The median cell is greatly elon- 
gated and from its distal end two short veins, the ends of the radius 
and cubitus, are extended, of which in some species one may be 
obliterated. The cubitus arises distal to the end of the submedian 
cell, which is long, and its posterior distal angle, formed by the sub- 
median and submedian cross veins, is an acute or a right angle. 
The submedian vein terminates in the anal sinus. The basal lobe is 
oblong or oval and is approximately equal to one-half the length of 
the submedian cell. 

The legs are well developed. The middle coxae are separated, the 
trochanters are comparatively small, and the tibiae and tarsi are 
strongly bespined. The middle tibia ends in a single spur. The 
anterior tarsi are provided with tarsal combs on the outer (posterior) 
side; these are strongly developed on the female, much less so on 
the male. The claws are always simple, never toothed, and the 
pulvilli are always developed. 

The males of the different species show a variety of secondary 
sexual characters, appearing on the antennae, legs, and sternites. 
Various segments of the antennae are pitted, dilated, curved, or 
spinose; the middle femora are sometimes serrate or dentate; the 
middle metatarsus may be curved and the second or sixth sternite 
(or both) may bear a process or a carina of some kind. All these 
characters are available for the determination of species. 


78 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


The general color of the body is black. The color of the macula- 
tions varies from white or yellowish white to rich orange yellow. 
In some species the extensive development of the maculations almost 
suppresses the black ground color. On the species of this genus, 
especially on the males, the pubescence is on the whole better de- 
veloped than on those of closely related genera, 

In the determination of species in this genus we take into con- 
sideration (1) the relative direction of the inner borders of the com- 
pound eyes, (2) the width of the frons in comparison with the width 
of the compound eye at a given level, (3) the relative length of the 
segments of the antennae, (4) the secondary sexual modifications of 
the segments of the flagellum of males, (5) the development of the 
mandibles, (6) the development of the labrum, (7) the character of 
the middle femora of the males, (8) the form of the ultimate tergite, 
(9) the character of the processes on sternites 2 and 6 of the male, 
(10) the character of the seventh sternite of the male, (11) the form 
of the male genital armature, and (12) the character of the macula- 
tions, size, and habitat. 


KEY TO SPECIES. 


Males. 
1. Intermediate femora distinctly serrate or dentate........--.------------------- 2. 
1. Intermediate femora smooth; not distinctly serate or dentate.....-..-.--.--.- 16. 
2. Second and sixth sternites without processes, plain............---------+--+- 3. 
2. Second and sixth sternites with more or less well developed processes.......-.. 6. 
3. First segment of middle tarsus distinctly curved, its inner surface beset with 
several Stout splines) [37/22 Uh a Sa SNS eB he a 4. 
3. First segment of middle tarsus not so formed, development normal.......-.-..- 5. 
4. Mesosternum marked with black; sternites 2-4 for the most part black; genital 
stipes asin fig. 140. 2.2.0. 02 wow nie we een nnn one ee nee oe oe arcuata. 
4. Mesosternum yellow; sternites 2-4 almost entirely yellow; stipes as in fig. 141. 
U-scripta. 
5. Clypeus with lateral borders black; tarsi more or less heavily suffused with black 
siowe. Lens ested SS uth ha hae oo Lise ale ee uae neatly eyelet le 4 aioe cinerea. 
5. Clypeus wholly yellow; tarsi entirely yellow.........--..-----------+-+--- hinei. 
6. Process on sixth sternite prominent, its ventral surface flattened and bifurcate 
at apex; genital stipes as in figs. 149, 151.........-...-.----------+---+----- i 
6. Process on sixth sternite a transverse ridge not sharply pointed but slightly curved 
epeither side the midline: / 51.040. eee BU aS a eee 8. 
6. Process of sixth sternite prominent, flattened and bluntly pointed; an additional 
pair of small processes or ridges on this same sternite.........-.-.- nubilipennis. 
6. Process on sixth sternite not as above; relatively small, acutely pointed or if 
flattened the sixth sternite lacks the lateral processes or ridges.....-.-...---- 9. 
7. Spur on the middle tibia reaching to or beyond the middle point of the metatarsus. 
amoena. 
7. Spur on the middle tibia not reaching to or beyond the middle point of the meta- 
CBOE PUES «one oe cic Hols Wide Sh Gicie ie a ola ean ale aed 2 a eee say. 


8. Fasciae on tergites interrupted; labrum with transverse impression; seventh 
sternite not conspicuously narrowed . 2s o2sce ween see uin es sont eeneee belfraget. 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 79 


8. 


Fasciae on tergites continuous; labrum without transverse impression; seventh 
sternite conspicuously narrowed................------2- eee ee eee stenebdoma. 


. Fasciae on second tergite inclosing a pair of black spots; lateral spots on sternites 


may be connected by apical lines..............22...0220 2020 eee cece e eee 10. 


. Fascia on second tergite not inclosing black spots; lateral spots on sternites not 


Septem a yupical hinges) 3.52!) 229. 6uc. Sushi aoa. she eae 11. 


. Dorsum of median segment not maculated; genital stipes as in fig. 156....... foxt. 
. Dorsum of median segment bearing lateral spots; genital stipes not as in fig. 156. 


connexa. 


. Sides of median segment and of thorax (excluding prothorax) black, or rarely 


With) me epot'on masopleurar: 2.322.206 cou. diy sliescl eu. eidi sca. ii 


. Sides of median segment and of thorax conspicuously maculated............- 15. 
. Fasciae on tergites narrow, usually (but not always) all interrupted; ultimate 


Serer et )3.02) ia Sopseeviolwlucéle: duce Jeuwetoe slated 3 spinolae. 


. Fasciae on tergites broader, all except the first continuous; ultimate tergite macu- 


oO seers praise! seus le lt Sete apo bas besos Wohin egy la.e KS. 


. Fifth flagellar segment spinose; pubescence normal; process on sixth sternite 


short, broad, and roundly pointed; fasciae on tergites bright yellow. ..cameroni. 


13. Fifth flagellar segment not spinose; pubescence unusually well developed; 

process on sixth sternite narrow and sharply pointed; fasciae on tergites white 

OR emeriae yet lew: ii Jou. Ses siden subseNiqaiddneeu sa sdadoee JU nape) 14. 
Peobeecise on. terettes witte::) bi Ju cigc: @. oudeclen iets Linear dei son ete odd comata. 
14. Fasciae on tergites greenish yellow. ..............-...-02eeeeeeenee primaaestate. 
15. Scutellum with a pair of lateral spots ...... 2.2.22... ee eee eee e ee eee similans. 
15. Scutellum without lateral spots...........-....---- eee eee eee ee eee primaaestate. 
16. Second and sixth sternites without processes................-----.---- pruinosa. 
16. Second sternite with a longitudinal carina; sixth with two small approximate 


tubercles; seventh terminating in a spine...-...............-..-----2--0--- 1; 
16. Process on sixth sternite simple, median, pointed; that on second more or less 
well developed, in exceptional cases lacking.................-...-----.---- 18. 
17. Sides of thorax and median segment black; yellow on tergites limited to lateral 
ppeneets Sry. Jans Nos ale te igaed skit ceil Sypakiel sad cad od beutenmulleri. 
17. Sides of thorax and median segment almost entirely yellow; tergites with con- 
cmuous broad yellow fasciaen. .oii22 12.isee sae oe Ladiersje toned per occidentalis. 
18. Scutum usually with a pair of more or less well developed discal marks; dorsum 
of median segment with a curved yellow fascia...........-.-...-- troglodytes. 
18. Scutum without discal spots; dorsum of median segment black.........-.--- 19. 
19. Postscutellum with a narrow whitish fascia; second sternite with a broad yellow 
fascia embracing the posterios part of the median process and may include a 
MRE GAM ROMP TNE ee i ee a melanas pis. 
19. Postscutellum immaculate; second sternite with triangular lateral spots that may 
Be eonnected by natrow apical band... ....----0-----<0> > ocnteeeesaneens=- 20. 
20. Markings of abdomen and sides of thorax white or creamy white; species some- 
MMe nee St en ke Ns abe tae a appears 6 vee ee texana. 
20. Markings of abdomen and sides of thorax bright lemon yellow; species slender. 
helianthopolis. 
Females. 
1. Neither postscutellum nor dorsum of median segment (excluding postero-lateral 
angles) marion Wilh, yellawecsiss. iwhsvsacks 2cenele Petes sis. cg pemeen cs 2. 
1. Postscutellum or dorsum of median segment or both marked with yellow...... 15. 
2. Fasciae on tergites all interrupted medially. ..................------22-22---5- 3. 
2. A part or all of the fasciae on tergites continuous. ...........-..-------2------ 9, 
Si Uitimate, tergite. strongly wrinkled. ........0e0sseesseeces ssesweesejeus belfragei. 
3. Ultimate tergite not wrinkled, punctate... .............ceecccncceccceececces 4, 


80 


PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


4, 


Pubescence on head and thorax, especially on the sides, unusually long and 
hoary; spur on middle tibia reaching to or beyond the middle point of the 
WICTSIATSUS. D21al UL URE Lo Ut DEE Ae me, cet aes Rae amoena. 


. Pubescence not unusually long; spur on middle tibia not reaching middle point 


niimetatarsuscs. beet ocws odd wedieiwtt fed.2 tieetsenose a ee 5. 


. Fasciae on tergites sinuate but not greatly attenuated medially; body rather 


BlendSri. wes 6 eo eS SOE. re La Be 1k eee tt Se 6. 


. Fasciae on tergites wide laterally and much attenuated medially or reduced to 


widely separated lateral spots; body relatively robust...................--- if 


. Fascia on second tergite imperfectly inclosing a pair of dorsal black spots, those 


on third and fourth with pair of anterior emarginations; fasciae yellow. . . .fovi. 


. Fascia on second tergite sinuate like those on third and fourth; fasciae white. 


spinolae. 

. Eyes not widely separated and plainly divergent at the clypeus; lateral spots on 
sternites connected by narrow apical lines..................... beutenmulleri. 

. Eyes widely separated and not divergent at the nisin lateral spots on sternites 
mot eGnmecten oon 6... byte ee Slt, ta ae ey Jae bane 8. 

. Abdominal markings creamy white; tibiae heavily marked with black; length 
RbeRL NG Mmm sito es Roe see Saat. Nee CR eiceeaals . ee luna oe cinerea. 

. Abdominal markings yellow; tibiae yellow; length 18-20 mm........... hinei. 

. Clypeus with a more or less conspicuous pair of basal black spots; fasciae on ter- 
gites white, second usually inclosing a pair of black spots.............. texana. 

. Clypeus not marked basally with black spots.........-...............- yee. 10. 
. Sides of thorax and median segment with evident maculations............... 11. 
. Sides of thorax and median segment black, rarely with inconspicuous maculation 
GUMESOTNOFAR i.e os ess sw ke Re ee OL a ta ec Sea nes 13. 

. Form large and robust, 17-20 mm; fascia on second tergite inclosing more or less 
periectly, a pair. of. dorsal. blackiepotes 2202 t ou nee! wie ee connexa. 

. Form more slender, 14 mm; fascia on second tergite not inclosing black spots. .12. 
; sPasciae on ‘tergites yellows. 22sec REAR Vea ae, ck ees similans. 
Citasvineten Lersites White. Url ej ees See ee ee ee ei primaaestate. 
. Fasciae on tergites bright yellow; ultimate tergite with central yellow macula- 
RIOR WSO ERE. See ay BRU SMe ee lear Ae eee ee cameroni 

. Fasciae on tergites soiled or greenish white or rarely greenish yellow; ultimate 
tergite black or with white maculation wie. Sid 2 Pe eo 14. 
\Pubescence normal: ultimate terpite ‘black sis) 2/0 Ue Joye Sa spinolae. 
. Pubescence unusually conspicuous; ultimate tergite with white maculation, 
which In some ‘cases is much obseured sii 2 Sort eee aia comata. 

o Wangs distinctly ‘clouded:medially!: 20.2) eee eee eek ah i ee 16. 
FUE EUCLOAL Rec cd ca bee Cees che enon eT ene bee ee ce ee eee eee co ae Mamet Ly. 
. Clypeus black or marked with black basally; lateral spots on sternites united by 
POUCAV INOS. o 2 deccee ec ee Cece tek Ce COR ee HOR MORI Rete Til Ce melanaspis. 

. Clypeus yellow; lateral spots on sternites not connected (except rarely on second 
PEO Ss Lec abe tens ee RECS R ee eee ee cme eine mtRS Con meatM nubilipennis. 

} Seutum with no traceof discal market yi. Uc ete Sune a ca. 18, 
. Scutum with more or less well developed discal marks.........-...-..: See) 22. 


. Large, 17-20 mm; eyes divergent at clypeus; frons narrow; fasciae on tergites 


Pex OVd KIT WC (1 1 |< SRR acne ah tants al Nang ge Me ku L/S bg ND a PARR Se 19. 


. Smaller, 14-16 mm; eyes very slightly divergent at vertex; frons relatively wide; 


fascia on first tergite almost always interrupted.............-.-.--.------- 20. 


. Fasciae on tergites white; that on second never inclosing black spots; clypeus 


usually withbasal black mark. 2.00 Meee Tee t's pruinosa. 


. Fasciae on tergites yellow; that on second always inclosing pair of black spots; 


clypous yellowseidescecssset teed o eee Se eee occidentalis. 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 81 


me Pascideom tersites yellow. i)! 8.) 2220 TLE ri ea 21. 
Me 1) asciad on terpites white. (.; . 2.2.3 .Wsioosies dele ches awa. primaaestate. 
ES PRN Sg i DLR Ue a inl ae similans. 
I PRS oo 8 a's 6 Aaa i «n\n = cisin'g web heir abdaialn oA abi Mamata 5 5b helianthopolis. 
22. First transverse cubital vein but slightly bent; development of ocelli unusual. .23. 
22. First transverse cubital vein normal; ocellar cicatrices normal ............... 24, 
23. Lateral spots on sternites 2-5 and apex of six yellow................-.-. U-scripta. 
23. Yellow on tergites limited to lateral spots on 2-4................2..2---- arcuata. 
24. Frons narrow; eyes divergent at the clypeus; mandibles slender, nearly devoid 

CR OL SMR A ee eee emer any Pan eM ent avi OF ee aca occidentalis. 
24. Frons normal; eyes not divergent at the clypeus; mandibles normal .......... 25. 
25. Labrum unusually long (see fig. 217); ultimate tergite rugose (see fig. 216) . .rwgosa. 
25. Labrum normal; ultimate tergite not rugose, punctate ....................... 26. 
26. Clypeus black or marked with black basally .................2.2..20..222--- oh. 
Me 1 a a oe ce ae ea RO OR r= Sa 28. 
27. Labrum yellow; ultimate tergite marked with yellow ................ troglodytes. 
Zi. Labrum black; ultimate tergite black?). .- 2.2.2.2. 5000.2 helianthopolis. 
28. Species large, 17-20 mm.; discal marks on scutum in form of a U, complete or 

TinQeere arr epee: (5 56). IO), AL, Se) Ser as os 29. 
28. Species smaller, under 17 mm.; discal marks on scutum consisting of a pair of 

Seog 05 oS called SSIS 28 ARON RAGES sires SOMO mane PAIS ule” AP WAFS (e 30. 
29. Second and third sternites broadly banded with yellow; second flagellar segment 

not equal to the combined length of the third and fourth.............. latifrons. 
29. Second and third sternites with only lateral spots; second flagellar segment equal 

to or greater than the combined length of the third and fourth............ sayt. 
mia Peering on tersites yellow 520.3) fies. 5 disae insta das deh Vestas similans. 
ee awtaD May Tereiied WHItG. fy ..4 2. - 5M. boas cy da ok megan mascaed primaaestate. 


BEMBIX ARCUATA, new species. 
Figs. 139, 140, 185, 206, 207. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, frons except a butterfly-shaped spot below anterior ocellus, 
posterior orbits prolonged above but not meeting on vertex, pro- 
thorax, lateral lines, and narrow longitudinal discal lines on scutum, 
broad fascia on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, curved fascia on 
dorsum of median segment extending down on posterior surface, 
lateral angles and sides of same, metapleurae almost completely, 
spot on posterior part of mesopleurae, anterior part of mesosternum, 
fasciae on tergites 1-5, first narrowly interrupted medially, the 
anterior border emarginate on either side the midline, second and 
third narrowed and interrupted medially, biemarginate on anterior 
dorsal border and on posterior border curved forward on either side 
toward the midline, fourth similar in design to the third, fifth con- 
tinuous and biemarginate on anterior border, median spot on sixth, 
apex of seventh, greater part of the first sternite, lateral spots on 2-4, 
greater part of coxae and trochanters, femora except stripe on pos- 
terior surface, tibiae, and tarsi, yellow. 

The scape is short, broad, and unusually hirsute, and segments 
6-11 of the flagellum are slightly spinose on the posterior side. As 

65008°—Proc.N.M.vol.52—17——6 


82 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


in the following species this character is in great part produced by 
the apical borders of the segments on the posterior surface. The 
ultimate segment is curved, flattened dorso-ventrally, pointed at the 
apex, and in length somewhat less than the combined length of the 
two segments immediately preceding. The middle femora below 
are beset with numerous short spinelike teeth and the middle tibiae, 
slightly carinate on the inner surface, have the apical margin on the 
anterior side drawn out into a process bearing a short spine at its tip. 
The middle metatarsi are curved on the inner side and bear near the 
base four spines. The second and sixth sternites are devoid of pro- 
cesses, the seventh bears a pair of carinae that diverge basally, and 
the eighth ends in a single spine. The genital stipes is very strik- 
ingly different from that of U-scripta Fox. 

The maculations on the paratypes vary somewhat from those of 
the type specimen. Some specimens show a more or less well devel- 
oped, but broken, U-shaped discal mark on the scutum, the curved 
fascia on the median segment may be broad and conspicuous or nar- 
row and broken; the spots on the sides of the thorax vary in extent; 
the first tergal fascia may be continuous, and the fifth may be broken 
into spots. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except 
median pair of black spots, scape and flagellum below, frons except 
butterfly-shaped spot below anterior ocellus, posterior orbits not 
prolonged on vertex, prothorax, lateral lines and broken U-shaped 
discal mark on scutum, fascia on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, 
broken curved fascia on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles 
and sides of same, metapleurae and mesopleurae almost entirely, ante- 
rior border of mesosternum, fasciae on tergites 1-4, all continuous 
except the third and similar in design to those of the male, three spots 
on the fifth, apex of the sixth, lateral spots on sternites 2-4, spot on 
anterior coxae, trochanters distally, femora except a broad stripe 
above and a short one also below on posterior pair, tibiae, and tarsi, 
yellow. The ultimate tergite is somewhat wrinkled and is bordered 
apically by short but well marked lateral ridges. 

Length.—17-19 mm. 

The scape is short but not so broad as in the male. The flagellum 
is tawny yellow below in the female but in the male it is more tes- 
taceous. The wings are hyaline, the veins dark brown. The first 
transverso-cubital vein is only slightly curved. The pubescence is 
tolerably long and dense and is yellowish white in color; on the abdo- 
men it is quite short. The ocelli and the labrum are similar to those 
of the following species to which this species is very closely related. 

This species is described from four males in the United States 
National Museum, three of which were collected in Texas and one 
in New Mexico, and from one female in the collection of the Uni- 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 83 


versity of Kansas. The male can be distinguished from the male of 
U-scripta Fox, by the character of the genital stipes as shown in 
the figures and by the fact that U-scripta has the mesosternum and 
the second and third ventral abdominal segments completely yellow 
and yellow fasciae on the fifth and sixth. The mesosternum of 
arcuata is marked with black, sternites two and three have only 
lateral spots and five and six are entirely black. The female of 
U-scripta has the mesosternum wholly yellow, lateral spots on stern- 
ites 2-5, and the apex of six marked with yellow; the female of 
arcuata has the mesosternum marked with black and the yellow on 
the sternites confined to small lateral spots on 2-4. 

Habitat.—Texas, New Mexico, Kansas. 

Type.—Cat. No. 19807, U.S.N.M. 


BEMBIX U-SCRIPTA Fox. 
Figs. 141, 208. 


Bembex U-scripta Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 362, pl. 14, figs. 5, 9, 
female, male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape, 
flagellum below, frons except pair of triangular black spots below 
anterior ocellus, and pair of widely separated points at base of clyp- 
eus, broad posterior orbits united across vertex, prothorax entirely, 
tegulae, broad lateral lines and broad U-shaped discal mark on 
scutum, broad fascia on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, dorsum 
and posterior surface of median segment except black band adjacent 
to postscutellum and narrow border of oblique sutures, sides of 
median segment, metapleurae and mesopleurae entirely, mesoster- 
num, broad fasciae on tergites 1-5, each with a pair of emargina- 
tions and a medial notch on anterior border, the emarginations on 
second and third deepest, three spots on sixth tergite, apex of sev- 
enth, sternites 1-3 almost entirely, broad fascia on fourth with medial 
emargination on anterior border, narrow broken fascia on fifth, 
broader one on sixth, apex of seventh, legs except narrow stripes on 
posterior surface of anterior and posterior femora, yellow. 

The scape is very short and broad and segments 5-11 of the 
flagellum are slightly spinose on the posterior surface, 8-11 most 
evidently so. The apical segment is curved, conical in outline and 
almost as long as the two segments immediately preceding it. The 
middle femora are dentate. The middle tibiae are slightly carinate 
on the inner surface and the anterior margin at the apex is drawn 
out into a process that bears a short spine at its tip. The middle 
metatarsi are strongly curved on the inner side and basally bear four 
spines. The second and sixth sternites are without processes of any 
kind, but the seventh bears a pair of carinae that diverge basally. 
The eighth ends in a single spine. 


84 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except 
a pair of medial spots that may merge into one, scape and flagellum 
below, frons except a butterfly-shaped spot below anterior ocellus, 
broad posterior orbits united across vertex, prothorax, broad lateral 
lines, and U-shaped discal mark on scutum, fascia on scutellum, 
metanotum, dorsum and posterior surface of median segment except 
black transverse border adjacent to postscutellum and border of 
oblique sutures, sides of median segment, metathorax and meso- 
thorax, mesosternum entire on greater part, broad continuous fasciae 
on tergites 1-4, each with a medial notch and a pair of dorsal emar- 
ginations on anterior border, second, third, and fourth with less 
prominent lateral emarginations, three spots on fifth, apex of sixth, 
first sternite, second except a rather broad, medial, longitudinal 
black mark, lateral spots on 3-5, apex of sixth, legs except stripe on 
posterior surface of fermora, and sometimes on tibiae below, yellow 
The sixth tergite is somewhat wrinkled and apically there is a pair 
of short but well marked lateral ridges. 

Length.—18 mm. 

The scape in the female is short but not so broad as in the male. 
The ocelli in this and the preceding species are peculiar in that the 
posterior pair are well developed, though not perfectly round, and 
are in all probability functional. The anterior ocellus is also de- 
veloped, appearing in long oval form but to what extent it is func- 
tional, if any, is yet to be learned. All three ocelli are light or amber 
in color on the dried insects. At the base the labrum bears a tri- 
angular flattened median area the apex of which forms a slight 
prominence on the median line. When viewed from the side a 
slight transverse depression is evident just distal to this prominence 
from which to the apex along the midline extends a slight carina. 
The wings are hyaline, the veins dark brown, and the first transver- 
so-cubital vein is but slightly curved. The pubescence on the head 
and thorax is long, tolerably dense and yellowish white; that on 
the abdomen is quite short. The extent of the color on the thorax is 
unusually variable. On one specimen, from Arizona, the thorax is 
entirely yellow except for the narrow longitudinal lines on the scutum. 

Habitat.—Arizona, California, and New Mexico. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 2; females, 4. 


BEMBIX CINEREA Handlirsch. 
Figs. 142, 143, 186. 


Bembex cinerea Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl., vol. 
102, 1893, p. 837, pl. 2, fig. 34; pl. 3, fig. 29, female, male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, except the lateral borders, sometimes 
small spots on mandibles, clypeus except the more or less wide lat- 
eral borders, small spot between antennae, scape below, abbreviated 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 85 


anterior orbits, which may be lacking, narrow posterior orbits, which 
also may be lacking, lateral spots on tergites 1-4 or 1-5, lateral spots 
on sternites 2-4 or 2-5, femora distally below more or less, tibiae 
below and on anterior border, tarsi in varying degree, yellow. 

The flagellum is cylindrical; segments 7 and 8 are very faintly 
spinose on posterior border, due to the presence of specialized areas, 
which on these and on the more apical segments do not assume the 
form of prominent pits. The apical segment is not curved, is rounded 
at the apex and is somewhat shorter than the combined length of 
the two just preceding it. The middle femora are finely serrate below. 
The middle tarsus is relatively shorter than is usual for the species 
of this genus, but on all specimens before me it is somewhat longer 
than its subtending tibia. The second and sixth sternites are usually 
without processes of any kind, but occasionally a very small one is 
found on the sixth. The seventh bears a median carina and also a 
pair of less prominent lateral carinae. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, scape below, spot between 
antennae, abbreviated anterior orbits, much reduced posterior orbits, 
femora distally below more or less, tibiae on anterior borders, tarsi 
in varying degree, yellow. Lateral spots on tergites 2-4 or 2-5, in 
some specimens broad at the sides but attenuated toward the mid- 
line, where they are more or less approximated, lateral spots on 
sternites 2-4 or 2-5, yellowish or greenish white. 

Length.—13-17 mm. 

The eyes in this species are widely separated, slightly more so in 
the female than in the male, and their inner margins are almost par- 
allel. The head, thorax, and base of abdomen are covered with rather 
long white pubescence; elsewhere on the abdomen the pubescence is 
shorter. The ultimate tergite of the female is evenly and coarsely 
punctate, giving its surface a roughened appearance; laterally it is 
provided with long white pubescence among which are placed some 
short black spines. The extent and the intensity of the black marks 
upon the tarsi vary much, but on both sexes the hind tarsi are 
constantly very dark, almost black above. In his description of 
this species Handlirsch fails to state the color of the maculations. 

The male of this species is distinguished by the presence of the 
black borders on the clypeus, which leave the central yellow spot in 
the form of a triangle with the apex at the midline of the base of the 
clypeus. It is further distinguished from the following species by 
its smaller size and by the presence of the black color of the tibiae, 
a mark that also distinguishes the female of this species from that of 
the following. 

Halitat.—Georgia, Florida, Texas, and New Jersey. 

Number of specimens examined—NMales, 13; females, 5. 


86 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


BEMBIX HINEI, new species. 
Figs. 144, 145, 187, 209. 

Male.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, mandibles except apices, spot 
between antennae, scape below, broad anterior orbits much shortened 
above, narrow posterior orbits, spot on sides of prothorax including 
lower part of tubercles, tegulae in part, spot on base of anterior wing, 
conspicuous lateral spots on tergites 1-5, lateral spots on sternites 
2-6, greater part of femora, tibiae, and tarsi entirely, yellow. The 
flagellum is neither spinose nor dentate, the middle femora are feebly 
serrate, and the middle tarsi are short as in the case of cinerea. The 
second and sixth sternites are without processes. The seventh 
bears a median carina and a lesser pair of lateral carinae. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, clypeus, mandibles except apices, spot 
between antennae, scape below, broad anterior orbits, narrow pos- 
terior orbits, spot on sides of prothorax including part of tubercles, 
tegulae in part, spot on base of anterior wing, conspicuous lateral 
spots on tergites 1-5, those on first segment widely separated, those on 
2-4 attenuated toward mid-dorsal line and more or less approxi- 
mated, lateral spots on sternites 2-5, greater part of the femora, 
tibiae, and tarsi entirely, yellow. 

Length.—15-19 mm. 

The wings in both sexes are hyaline and the pubescence is white, 
tolerably dense, and short except on the frons. It is very short on 
the abdomen except on the sixth tergite of the female, where it is 
white, long, and mingled with short, stout black spines. The varia- 
tion in the maculations is slight and insignificant. 

This species stands quite close to B. cinerea Handlirsch, to which 
species most of the individuals of this one found in our collections have 
been referred by those who identified them. A few specimens have 
been confused with B. beutenmulleri Fox, from which species the 
female of this one can with difficulty be distinguished. It differs 
from evnerea both in size and coloration. These differences, although 
they are the least satisfactory to depend upon in determining species, 
are Clear cut in both males and females, and I have found no interme- 
diate forms. In cinerea the abdominal markings on the female are 
creamy white, in hiner they are deep yellow; in cinerea the clypeus is 
bordered with black in the male, in hinet the clypeus is invariably 
yellow. In cinerea in both sexes the mandibles are black and the 
tibiae and tarsi are more or less black; in hinet these parts are almost 
wholly yellow, the tarsi invariably so. The genital stipes also differs 
in form from that of cinerea. 

Named for my friend and first instructor in entomology, Prof. 
James S. Hine. 

Habitat.—Texas, and Louisiana. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 10; females, 21. 

Type:—Cat. No. 19809, U.S.N.M. 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 87 


BEMBIX NUBILIPENNIS Cresson. 
Figs. 146, 147, 188. 


Bembex nubilipennis Cresson, Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 4, 1872, p. 218, 
female, male. 

Bembex nubilipennis Hanpuirscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—-Nat. Cl., 
vol. 102, 1893, p. 838, pl. 2, fig. 38; pl. 7, fig. 25. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons, spot before anterior ocellus, scape below, broad anterior 
orbits, posterior orbits, narrow line on posterior border of pronotum, 
sometimes widely interrupted medially or entirely wanting, spot on 
sides of prothorax variable in extent and usually including the tuber- 
cles, spot on tegulae, short lateral lines on scutum above base of 
wings, sometimes small lateral spots on scutellum, spot on lateral 
angles of median segment very frequently lacking, small spot on 
mesopleurae on a few specimens, broad fasciae on tergites 2-5 and 
sometimes 6, the first abruptly narrowed and more or less widely 
interrupted medially, the remaining fasciae with rare exceptions all 
continuous, biemarginate, and slightly notched medially, on anterior 
border and more widely notched medially on posterior border, lateral 
spots on sternites 2-5, which may or may not be connected by apical 
lines, femora except basally, tibiae, and tarsi, yellow. 

Segments 6-9 of the flagellum are spinose on the posterior border 
and segments 4—11 on the posterior surface bear pits, those on 10 and 
11 being large and conspicuous. The ultimate segment is a trifle 
longer than the preceding segment, only slightly cruved, broader at 
the base than at the apex, and is roundly truncate apically. The 
intermediate femora are unevenly and raggedly serrate below. The 
second sternite bears a large median tubercle, hooked and pointed 
posteriorly, and the sixth bears a prominent oblique process, flattened 
on its distal surface and roundly pointed at the apex. ‘This sternite 
also bears an additional pair of rounded lateral processes or ridges. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, space between insertions of antennae extended upward slightly, 
spot in front of anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, broad posterior 
orbits narrowed above, posterior border of pronotum, sides of pro- 
thorax except dusky line in front of tubercles, tegulae, lateral lines 
on scutum frequently shortened, sometimes a pair of discal lines on 
scutum, broad fascia on scutellum sometimes narrowed medially, 
fascia on metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median segment 
frequently interrupted medially, lateral angles of median segment 
and more or less of sides of same, spot on metapleurae, spot variable 
in size on mesopleurae, broad continuous fasciae on tergites 1-5, the 
first sometimes interrupted medially, more frequently roundly emar- 
ginate on anterior middle, rarely inclosing a pair of small medial an- 
terior black spots, second usually inclosing a pair of black spots 


PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


which may appear as anterior emarginations, third, fourth, and fifth 
more or less distinctly biemarginate on anterior border, second, 
third, and fourth acutely notched at middle of posterior border, 
lateral spots on sternites 2-5, those on second sometimes connected 
by an apical line, femora except to a slight extent basally, tibiae, and 
tarsi, yellow. 

Length.—17-20 mm. 

The wings of the female are conspicuously clouded medially; 
those of the male are hyaline with only a trace of the clouding on the 
wings of some individuals. The veins are dark brown. The flagel- 
lum on the female is usually fulvous or tawny below, but on the male 
the color is limited to the more basal segments. The pubescence is 
light, sparse and relatively short. The variation in the maculations 
of this species is greater than usual, especially on the female. The 
great majority of the females do not show discal marks on the scutum 
but a few specimens show not only a well developed pair of longi- 
tudinal discal lines but also a posterior transverse line. On some the 
sides of the thorax and median segment are almost wholly yellow, 
whereas on others these parts are almost entirely black. 

Habitat.—Tennessee, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Texas, New Mexico, 
Colorado, and Arizona. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 31; females, 46. 


BEMBIX AMOENA Handlirsch. 
Figs. 148, 149, 189, 210. 


Bembex amoena Hanvurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. CL., 
vol. 102, 1893, p. 769, male, female, pl. 1, fig. 32; pl. 6, fig. 31. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons, scape below, broad anterior orbits sometimes shortened 
above, narrow posterior orbits broader below and not reaching vertex 
above, spot on sides of prothorax sometimes including tubercles, 
spot on tegulae, wanting in some specimens, large irregular spot on 
side of mesopleurae united on mesosternum, pair of small spots on 
mesosternum in front of middle coxae, sometimes wanting, fasciae on 
tergites entirely absent or present on 1-5, first broad laterally, narrow 
and widely interrupted medially, remainder narrow, strongly undu- 
late and narrowly interrupted medially, pair of median spots on 
sixth, lateral spots on sternites 1-5, sometimes reduced to 2-3, 
coxae below more or less, trochanters more or less in some specimens 
and in others not at all, femora below, tibiae except spot below in 
some specimens, and tarsi, greenish yellow or white. 

Segments 5-8 of the flagellum when viewed from above show small 
but distinct spines on the posterior surface, and segments 5-12 bear 
pits or excavations on their posterior surfaces best developed on 


no.2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 89 


9-11. The apical segment is only slightly curved and when seen 
from above is of uniform width from base to near the apex, which is 
slightly rounded. The middle femora are distinctly dentate below 
and the middle tibiae bear on their inner surface a distinct, but 
not greatly compressed carina. The apical spur of the middle tibia 
reaches to or beyond the middle point of the metatarsus. The second 
sternite bears a median longitudinal process and the sixth a promi- 
nent, elongated process that is flattened on its ventral surface in a 
plane nearly parallel with the long axis of the body and is usually 
bifurcate at the tip. The seventh bears a median prominent carina 
and laterally near the base a pair of slight elevations. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons, anterior orbits, scape below, posterior orbits broader 
below, broken spot on sides of prothorax, one or two small spots on 
mesopleurae, fasciae on tergites 1-4 or 1-5, first narrowed medially 
and rather widely interrupted, remainder strongly undulate and 
narrowly interrupted medially, that on 5 sometimes broken or sup- 
pressed, lateral spots on tergites 2-4 or 2—5, spot on anterior coxae 
below, absent on some specimens, femora below more or less, tibiae 
except broad stripe below, and tarsi, greenish white or greenish yellow, 
the tibiae and tarsi having arusty tinge. Thesixth tergite is coarsely 
and irregularly punctated with a tendency to become rugose at the 
sides apically. 

Length.—19-22 mm. 

The wings in both sexes are hyaline, veins brown. The head, 
thorax, median segment and base of abdomen are covered with long, 
dense pubescence, particularly well developed about the head, on the 
median segment and base of abdomen. The pubescence on the basal 
segments of the legs, dorsal surface of the thorax and the abdomen, 
except the base, is shorter and less conspicuous. ‘The scape is heavy 
and stout, especially on the male. The flagellum is much lighter 
below than above on the female, less evidently so on the male. The 
apical spur on the middle tibia of the female is the same as on the 
male. 

The extremes of the series show a wide variation in the color mark- 
ings. This is especially true for the male. At one extreme the 
abdomen is entirely black; at the other, tergites 1-5 each bears a 
comparatively broad fascia interrupted medially, and the sixth a pair 
of median spots. With reference to other maculations the extremes 
show a like divergence. At one extreme we find the sides of the tho- 
rax and median segment showing only a small spot on the mesopleurae ; 
at the other not only the thorax but even the sides of the median 
segment show prominent maculations. Between these extremes, how- 
ever, we find a well-graded series passing from one to the other. In 
the female the divergence, though evident in the series, is not so great. 


90 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


On some specimens a pair of irregular black basal spots is found on 
the clypeus which spots are lacking on those on which the yellow 
maculations are best developed. 

It is difficult to distinguish the most highly colored males of this 
species from the least well maculated males of sayi. The characters 
that distinguish this species from the latter are, however, the long 
apical spur of the middle tibia and the shape of the process on the 
sixth sternite. The genital stipes of the two are almost identical. 

Habitat.—Yellowstone Park, Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Cali- 
fornia. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 17; females, 5. 


BEMBIX SAYI Cresson. 
Figs. 150, 151, 190, 211. 


Bembex sayi Cresson, Proc. Ent. Soc. Phila., vol. 4, 1865, p. 467, female. 
Bembex sayi Hanpiirscu, Sitz. Acad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl., vol. 102, 
1893, p. 877, female. 


Male—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons continued upward between the antennae and united 
with spot in front of anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, scape 
except narrow stripe above, posterior orbits, prothorax entirely, 
tegulae, lateral limes and a pair of narrow discal lines on scutum, 
narrow fascia on posterior border of scutellum greatly enlarged lat- 
erally, narrow fasciae on metanotum, large triangular spot squarely 
emarginate below on posterior surface of median segment, lateral 
angles and sides of same, metapleurae, one large irregular spot con- 
tinued on mesosternum and two small posterior ones on mesopleurae, 
broad fasciae on tergites 1-6, all undulate laterally and continuous 
except the first, second inclosing a pair of elliptical dorsal black 
spots, third, fourth, and fifth biemarginate on anterior dorsal border, 
second to sixth distinctly notched medially on posterior border, 
posterior border of first sternite, large lateral spots on second almost 
united medially, smaller lateral spots on 3-6, legs entirely except 
black stripe above on anterior femora, small black spots on base of 
trochanters and at base of posterior femora, yellow or yellowish 
white. 

The description above is made from the most highly colored male 
in the series before me. The least highly colored is as follows: | 
Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower part of frons, scape 
below, anterior and posterior orbits, small lateral spots on dorsal 
border of pronotum, large spot on sides of prothorax including tuber- 
cles in part, spot on tegulae, minute spot above tegulae on scutum, 
two spots on mesopleurae, pair of smaller ones on mesosternum, 
narrow undulate, interrupted fasciae on tergites 1-5, small lateral 
spots on sternites 2 and 3, spot on anterior and middle coxae below, 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 91 


ees ere es te ee eee et ae 
femora except broad stripe above on all and a short one below on 
posterior pair, tibiae except narrow line below on anterior and middle 
pairs, and tarsi, yellow or yellowish white. The markings of the 
abdomen are decidedly white. 

Between these two extremes I have before me a very complete 
series of gradations wherein the extensive markings of the one are 
almost imperceptibly reduced to the meager maculations of the 
other. In other respects the series is remarkably uniform. The 
scape is broad and stout and viewed from the side is larger apically 
than at the base. Segments 5-8 of the flagellum are spinose posteri- 
orly and 4-12 bear pits or excavations on their posterior surface, 
most conspicuous on 9-11. The apical segment seen from above is 
curved and widest at the base, the width decreasing perceptibly 
toward the apex. The middle femora are dentate below and the 
middle tibiae bear a longitudinal carina on the inner side. The spur 
at the apex of the middle tibia is less than half the length of the 
middle metatarsus. The second sternite bears a prominent, laterally 
compressed, median process, and the sixth a process equally promi- 
nent, usually bifurcate at the apex, its ventral surface flattened or 
provided with a median groove but not placed parallel with the 
long axis of the body as in the case of amoena. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons, spot before anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, poste- 
rior orbits broad below, prothorax except dusky spot in front of 
tubercles and an anterior dorsal median spot sometimes broken into 
lateral spots, tegulae, lateral lines on scutum, pair of longitudinal 
discal lines and a posterior transverse discal line, sometimes wanting, 
on scutum, transverse fascia on posterior border of scutellum en- 
larged laterally, fascia on metanotum rarely wanting, curved fascia 
on dorsum of median segment, its lateral angles and sides except a 
median black emargination on dorsal border of side, metapleurae, 
mesopleurae wholly or for the most part, broad fasciae on tergites, 
all continuous except the first, which is narrowly interrupted medi- 
ally, the second or second and third inclosing a pair of dorsal elliptical 
black spots, which in some specimens are united with the anterior 
black border in the form of emarginations, fourth and fifth with a pair 
of anterior dorsal emarginations and a less evident pair of lateral 
ones, second to fifth with a deep acute median notch on posterior 
border, spot on apex of ultimate tergite, reduced in some specimens 
and wanting in others, lateral spots on sternites 1-5 or 2-4, legs 
almost entirely in the lighter specimens, in the darker ones spots on 
anterior and middle coxae, femora except above and stripe below on 
posterior pair, tibiae except stripe below on all, and tarsi, yellow or 
yellowish white. 

Length.—17-19 mm. 


99 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


On both sexes the pubescence on the head, thorax, median seg- 
ments and base of abdomen is white and moderately long and dense, 
but not so well developed as in the case of amoena. The wings are 
hyaline, veins brown. The scape is relatively short and heavy; the 
flagellum is reddish below, especially in the female. The punctures 
of the scutum are moderately large, evenly but not closely distrib- 
uted. Those of the median segment smaller and more closely placed. 
The punctures of the ultimate tergite are coarser, variable in size, 
and more irregularly placed. A small female from Texas apparently 
belongs in this species, though it lacks the discal marks on the scutum, 
the yellow fascia on the median segment and the dorsal fasciae are 
narrow and none inclose paired black spots. 

Habitat—Florida, Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas, South 
Dakota, and Wyoming. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 29; females, 15. 

BEMBIX BELFRAGEI Cresson. 
Figs. 152, 153, 191, 212, 213. 


Bembex belfragei Cresson, Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 4, 1873, p. 220, male. 

Bembex cressonis HanpuirscH, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl., 
vol. 102, 1893, p. 792, male, female, pl. 5, fig. 6. 

Bembex insignis Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. C1., 
vol. 102, 1893, p. 793, male, female, pl. 2, fig. 7; pl. 6, fig. 32. 

Bembex belfragei Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., 1895, p. 357. 

Male.—Black: Labrum wholly or with small basal spots or not at 
all, clypeus, wholly or with pair of apical spots or not at all, mandibles 
except apices, scape below or not at all, anterior orbits and spot 
between antennae which marks may all be lacking, posterior orbits, 
spot on sides of prothorax continued on tubercles or wholly wanting, 
rarely spot on mesopleurae and small lateral spots on scutellum, 
fasciae on tergites 1-4 or 1-6 all interrupted medially, first broad and 
more widely interrupted than the remainder, second and third broad 
laterally and abruptly narrowed dorsally on either side the midline, 
remainder narrower and somewhat undulate, lateral spots on ster- 
nites 2-3 or 2-5, femora below more or less, tibiae except much of 
lower surface, and tarsi, yellow or greenish yellow. 

Segments 7-9 of the flagellum are slightly produced on their pos- 
terior margin and 9-11 bear prominent pits. The apical segment is 
slightly curved and is longer but narrower than the segment preceding 
it. The middle femora are dentate below on the distal half. The 
second sternite bears a large medial, laterally compressed, slightly 
hooked process. The sixth bears a heavy prominent transverse ridge 
usually drawn to a sharp edge on its posterior distal border, bluntly 
pointed medially and slightly curved on either side. The seventh 
bears a small median posterior process from which a pair of incon- 
spicuous carinae diverge basally. The apical surface of the ultimate 
tergite is more or less rugose. 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 93 


Female.—Black: Spot on mandibles not always present, very small 
lateral spots on scutellum, fasciae on tergites 1-4 interrupted medially, 
the first broad and a trifle more widely interrupted than the others, 
second and third broad laterally and on anterior border abruptly nar- 
rowed or emarginated on either side the midline, fourth narrower but 
similar in design to the third, small posterior lateral spots on sternites 
2 or 2-4, only the border of the femora, tibiae, and tarsi more or less, 
or distal ends of the femora and the tibiae and tarsi almost entirely, 
yellow or greenish yellow. The dorsal surface of the ultimate tergite 
is strongly wrinkled longitudinally. 

Length.—16-18 mm. 

The females from Wisconsin have the antennae and the front of the 
head, except spot on mandibles, entirely black. In both specimens 
there are yellow spots on the mesopleurae, lateral spots on the scutel- 
lum, also on metanotum and median segment dorsally, and on stern- 
ites 2-3. On one the spots are better developed than on the other, 
the first and second tergal fasciae are very broad, the second dorsally 
enclosing a pair of black spots, a character peculiar to Handlirsch’s 
insignis. The females from Kansas have the antennae, the head, 
except the much-reduced posterior orbits, and the thorax, except 
small lateral spots on scutellum, wholly black. The legs also, includ- 
ing the tibiae and tarsi, are almost entirely black, and the yellow on 
the venter of the abdomen is reduced to small lateral spots on ster- 
nites 2 or 2-3. The characteristic wrinkling of the sixth tergite is 
constant on all the specimens. 

In both sexes the labrum when viewed from the side shows a dis- 
tinct transverse impression. The scape is short and stout; the flagel- 
lum is black and the apical segment is longer but slightly narrower 
than the preceding segment. ‘The wings are very slightly infumated, 
the veins brown. The head, thorax, median segment and base of 
abdomen are covered with relatively short, moderately dense pubes- 
cence, dark on dorsum of thorax, white elsewhere. The punctation 
of the dorsum of the thorax is regular, close, and moderately fine. 
The eyes are widely separated and are slightly divergent at the vertex. 

Handlirsch arrived at the conviction that Cresson, in his description 
of belfrager, included two distinct species and being unable to deter- 
mine to which the name belfragei should be applied, discarded that 
name entirely and substituted the names cressonis and insignis 
instead. Fox in his Synopsis of the Bembicini of Boreal America 
restored the original name by making cressonis Handlirsch a synonym 
of belfraget Cresson and retained insignis Handlirsch as a good species. 
A careful study of the specimens at hand and also of those in the col- 
lection of the American Entomological Society of Philadelphia raises 
the question of the validity of Handlirsch’s insignis. Structurally it 
is, as Handlirsch himself points out, essentially like cressonis and in 


94 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


his table Handlirsch makes use of only color differences to separate 
his two species. These differences, made use of by Handlirsch, repre- 
sent, as a matter of fact, simply extremes in a variable series, as is 
shown by the series of specimens I have examined. In the series I 
find one male that has the labrum, clypeus, lower side of scape, 
frontal spot, wide anterior and narrow posterior orbits yellow—charac- 
ter pecular to ansignis. It also has narrow, interrupted, conspicuous 
fasciae on fourth, fifth, and sixth tergites—characters that distinguish 
cressonis—thus combining in one individual the very characters by 
means of which the two species have been separated. Other speci- 
mens also, both males and females, show a greater or less degree of 
variation in their maculations and these variations are present in 
those maculations that we should expect to find relatively constant 
if they are to be regarded as specific characters. Furthermore, so 
far as I can discover, there is no variation whatever in structure in 
either sex. I have, therefore, been forced to conclude that we have 
only one species variable in color and also somewhat in size and have 
placed the specimens in Cresson’s original species belfraget. 
Habitat.—Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, Kansas, and Wisconsin. 
Number of specimens examined—Males, 11; females, 7. 


BEMBIX STENOBDOMA, new species. 
Figs. 154, 192, 214, 215. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape, 
basal segments of flagellum below, spot between antennae, broad 
anterior orbits narrowly prolonged onto vertex and joined by a 
transverse line below anterior ocellus, broad posterior orbits nar- 
rowed to a fine line above, prothorax almost entirely, lateral lines 
and a pair of discal lines on scutum, tegulae, narrow fascia on scutel- 
lum enlarged laterally, narrow curved fascia on metanotum, short 
narrow oblique lines basally on dorsum of median segment, sides of 
median segment, mesothorax and metathorax entirely, mesoster- 
mum except small black spots in front of middle coxae, broad fasciae 
on tergites 1-6, first slightly narrowed medially, second to sixth 
biemarginate and also notched medially on anterior dorsal border, 
apex of seventh tergite, first sternite, second except three anterior 
black spots, broad fasciae on third and fourth with a median triangular 
anterior emargination, lateral spots on fifth, apex of sixth, seventh, legs 
except basal black spots on middle and posterior coxae and narrow 
black stripe on all femora above, greenish yellow. The markings of 
the scutellum, metanotum, and dorsum of abdomen are more white 
than yellow; this is true to a less extent of the clypeus while the legs 
lack the greenish tinge. 

The scape is very short, stout, and thick and the flagellum is unusu- 
ally light in color, shading below from yellow at the base to tawny 


no. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 95 


at the apex. The flagellum is cylindrical, the first segment smallest 
in diameter, the last three slightly flattened and decreasing in width 
imperceptibly to the apical segment, which is very slightly curved 
and rounded at the apex. Segments 9-11 bear conspicuous pits and 
7-8 smaller ones. The seventh is spinose on the posterior surface. 
The middle femora are dentate below, and the spur at the apex of the 
middle tibia is curved. The middle metatarsus is unusually short 
and is bent in outline. The wings are hyaline, veins brown. The 
pubescence on head, thorax, and base of abdomen is white, short, and 
sparse, elsewhere on abdomen almost lacking. The second sternite 
bears a large prominent hooked process; the third, an evident 
median carina; the fifth, a pair of very small approximated tubercles 
apically; the sixth, a low broad transverse process whose posterior 
face is at right angles to the plane of the segment. With respect to 
this process on the sixth sternite the species resembles B. belfraget. 
The seventh sternite is greatly narrowed, but it is not reduced to the 
form of a spine. 

Length—16 mm. Described from a single specimen. 

Habitat.—Florence, Arizona. 

Type.—Male, in collection of American Entomological Society of 
Philadelphia. 


BEMBIX RUGOSA, new species. 
Figs. 216, 217. 


Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, an- 
terior orbits, scape and flagellum below, small rounded spot on 
either side of anterior ocellus, narrow posterior orbits, sides of pro- 
thorax united by a narrow line on posterior border of pronotum, 
tegulae, lateral lines and a pair of short anterior discal lines on scutum, 
fascia on scutellum narrowed medially, fascia on metanotum, pair of 
short, broad, oblique lines on dorsum of median segment, spot on 
mesothorax, broad fasciae on tergites 1-4, first slightly emarginate 
on anterior middle, second, third, and fourth each with five emargi- 
nations on anterior border—i. e., a shallow median notch, a deeper 
square indentation on either side of this and laterally on either side 
a shallow sinuation, pair of spots on fifth, lateral spots on sternites 
2-4, the last pair quite small, apex of ultimate sternite, femora dis- 
tally, tibiae, and tarsi, pale greenish or creamy yellow. 

The antennae are cylindrical, long, and slender. The clypeus is 
strongly arched, shows a silvery reflection and on the midline at 
the apical border it bears a very slight depression. The labrum 
is unusually long and slender, as shown in figure 217. The legs 
are also slender and longer than usual. The spur at the apex of 
the middle tibia does not reach the middle metatarsus and the spine 
on the posterior side is almost equally well developed. The wings 
are hyaline, the veins brown. The pubescence on head, thorax, and 


96 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


base of abdomen is white, relatively long and moderately dense; 
elsewhere on the abdomen short and sparse. The ultimate tergite of 
the abdomen apically bears short, well-marked lateral carinae that, 
though not evident in a dorsal view, set off a fairly well defined 
middlefield, which is strongly wrinkled, a character in which it 
resembles B. belfraget. This character and the unusually long labrum 
form a pair of distinguishing features by which this species can be 
readily recognized. 

Length.—14 mm. 

It is possible that this is the female of the preceding species. 
Although these two specimens, on which the two species are based, 
do not resemble one another sufficiently to warrant my associating 
them as sexes of one species, nevertheless their resemblance to the 
male and female respectively of belfraget causes me to suspect that 
they may be sexes of a single species. 

Described from a single specimen in the United States National 
Museum. 

Habitat.—Arizona. 

Type.—Cat. No. 19782, U.S.N.M. 


BEMBIX FOXI, new species. 
Figs. 155, 156, 193. 
Bembex sayit Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 359, female, male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, frons between antennae, broad anterior orbits somewhat 
shortened and also deflected inward above, spot below anterior ocel- 
lus, narrow posterior orbits, posterior border of pronotum, sides of 
prothorax except irregular spot in front of tubercles, weak lateral 
lines and pair of short discal lines on scutum, spot on sides of median 
segment, spot on metapleurae, irregular spot on mesopleurae, fasciae 
on tergites 1-6, first somewhat widely interrupted, second broadest 
and inclosing a pair of elliptical dorsal black spots, third with a pair of 
dorsal anterior emarginations, fourth and fifth similar to the third but 
with broader and more shallow emarginations, apex of seventh, fascia 
on second sternite inclosing transverse black area posterior to the 
median process, lateral spots on sternites 3-7, spot on anterior and 
middle coxae, femora except basally and line above on first pair, tibiae 
except line below on first pair, and tarsi, bright yellow. 

The flagellum is dark above, light or yellowish below; segments 
7-8 are slightly spinose on the posterior border; the ultimate seg- 
ment is somewhat curved and tapers toward the apex where it is 
roundly but obliquely truncate. The pubescence is white and tol- 
erably well developed on head, thorax, median segment and base of 
abdomen; it is shortest on the dorsum of the thorax and longest on 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 97 


sides of thorax and median segment. The middle femora are finely 
but not deeply serrate. The second sternite bears a large, prominent, 
hook-like process, of which the backwardly directed distal prolonga- 
tion, ending in a sharp point, is relatively greater than that of any 
other species herein described. The sixth bears a pointed, narrow, 
triangular process whose ventral surface is slightly concave longi- 
tudinally. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, frons between antennae, broad anterior orbits shortened and 
deflected inward above, spot before anterior ocellus, narrow posterior 
orbits, posterior border of pronotum, sides of prothorax except irregu- 
lar spot in front of tubercles, lateral lines and pair of discal lines on 
scutum, lateral spots on scutellum, spot on sides of median segment, 
spot on metapleurae, irregular spot on mesopleurae, fasciae on tergites 
1-5, first widely interrupted, remainder very narrowly interrupted, 
second imperfectly inclosing a pair of dorsal black spots, remainder 
with a pair of broad, shallow, anterior, dorsal emarginations, apex 
of sixth tergite, lateral spots on sternites 2-5, spot on anterior and 
middle coxae, femora except basally and upper surface of anterior 
pair, tibiae except stripe above and below on anterior and middle 
pairs, and tarsi, yellow. 

Length.—14 mm. 

The flagellum is light below, more so than in the male, and the 
pubescence is similar to that on the male. The wings in both sexes 
are hyaline and the sculpturing is of the normal character. On the 
female and on one male the fasciae on the tergites are very narrowly 
interrupted, appearing for the most part as if developed in lateral 
halves that have just failed of uniting on the dorsal midline. 

This species in the pattern and color of its maculations resembles 
very closely B. troglodytes Handlirsch, from which the male of this 
species can be readily distinguished by the presence of the serrate 
middle femora and spinose antennae. The female is distinguished 
from troglodytes by the absence of any black on the clypeus and by the 
absence of maculations on the metanotum and dorsum of median 
segment. The male differs from spinolae, similans, and cameront in 
the character of the process on the second sternite, the spinose seg- 
ments of the antennae and the form of the genital stipes. From the 
females of these three species the female of this one differs in the 
character of the maculations. Fox referred the males of this species 
to say Cresson, and it was doubtless on these same specimens that he 
based his description of the male of that species. 

Described from two males and one female. 

Hatitat.—Ilinois. 

Type.—Male and paratypes in collection of the American Ento- 
mological Society of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

65008°—Proc.N.M.vol.52—17——7 


98 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


BEMBIX SPINOLAE Lepeletier. 
Figs. 157, 158, 159, 160, 194. 


Bembex spinolae LEPELETIER, Hist. Nat., 1845, vol. 3, p. 277. 

Bembex fasciata DantBom, Hymen. Europ., vol. 1, 1845, p. 487, female. 

Bembex fasciata WatsH and Riney, Amer. Ent., vol. 1, 1860, p. 126, fig. 98. 

Bembex spinolae Hanvutrscy, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl., vol. 
102, 1893, p. 825. 

Bembex spinolae Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 357. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
and first two flagellar segments below, spot between antennae, broad 
anterior orbits, narrow posterior orbits, spot on sides of prothorax 
sometimes extensive and sometimes wanting, tubercles and posterior 
border of the segment both above and below tubercles variable in 
extent, tegulae more or less, sometimes small spot on mesopleurae, 
rarely small lateral spots on scutellum, fasciae on tergites 1-5, all of 
which may be interrupted medially or all continuous except the first, 
lateral spots on sternites 2-5, femora distally more or less, tibiae ex- 
cept stripe on posterior surface variable in extent, and tarsi, light or 
greenish yellow. 

The antennae are slender and segments 7-9 and sometimes 6 also 
are spinose on the posterior surface, due to the presence of small pits, 
of which larger ones are found on 10 and 11. The middle femora are 
dentate. The second sternite usually bears a prominent median 
tubercle but this in some specimens is much reduced or wholly want- 
ing. The sixth bears a small median process that is pointed and 
obliquely directed backward. The seventh bears a median carina 
more or less pointed posteriorly. The genital stipes vary somewhat, 
as is shown in the accompanying figures. The variation in the extent 
of the maculations is great. As a rule the maculations are less ex- 
tensive on those specimens from the north than on those from the 
south, but this is by no means universal. The abdominal fasciae 
may be very narrow or relatively broad, closely approximated or 
widely separated medially and more or less sinuate in outline. The 
markings of the thorax also varies. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, spot 
between antennae, scape and basal part of flagellum below, broad 
anterior orbits, posterior orbits, spot on side of prothorax variable in 
extent, tubercles more or less, posterior border of the segment above 
and below the tubercles variable in extent, spot upon sides of meso- 
pleurae variable in size and sometimes wanting, sometimes spot on 
sides of median segment, fasciae on tergites 1-5, the first invariably 
interrupted medially, the remainder in some cases all interrupted 
medially, in others only part interrupted, and in still others all con- 
tinuous, lateral spots on sternites 2-4, femora distally more or less, 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 99 


tibiae, except stripe, of greater or less extent below, and tarsi, light 
yellow or greenish white. 

Length.—14-17 mm. 

The wings in both sexes are hyaline and the nervures brown. The 
pubescence is white, relatively short and tolerably dense on head, 
thorax and base of abdomen; on the remaining segments of the 
abdomen it is quite short. The punctation in both sexes is of the 
usual character. 

Habitat.—Texas, Kansas, Missouri, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, 
North Carolina, West Virginia, District of Columbia, Maryland, 
Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Long Island, Connecticut, 
Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Ontario, Ohio, In- 
diana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, South Dakota. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 41; females, 83. 


BEMBIX CAMERONI Rohwer. 
Figs. 161, 162, 195. 
Bembyx cameront RouweERr, Proc. U. 8. Nat. Mus., vol. 41, 1912, p. 467. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, very broad anterior orbits abbreviated above, space between 
insertions of antennae prolonged upward, spot below anterior ocellus, 
line on posterior border of pronotum, tubercles, sides of prothorax 
in part, spot on tegulae, small lateral spots on scutum at base of 
anterior wing, broad fasciae on tergites 1-6, first narrowly inter- 
rupted medially, second, third, and fourth biemarginate dorsally and 
sinuate laterally on anterior margin and on posterior margin acutely 
emarginate medially, fifth and sixth but slightly emarginate or 
sinuate, small spot on apex of seventh, lateral spots on sternites 2-5, 
the greater part of the femora distally, tibiae except spot below on 
anterior pair, and tarsi, yellow. 

The middle femora are dentate and the antennae are spinose on the 
posterior border of segments 5-9. The second sternite bears a 
prominent hooked process and the sixth a somewhat short, broad, 
roundly pointed process whose ventral surface distally is slightly 
concave, presenting a spoon-shaped appearance. The spot before the 
anterior ocellus is wanting on some specimens, and the line on the 
pronotum consists of spots. On some specimens the scutellum bears 
small lateral spots and lateral spots may occur on the sixth sternite. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, broad anterior orbits shortened above, space between antennae, 
line on posterior border of pronotum tubercles, sides of the prothorax 
in part, spot on tegulae, short lateral line on scutum at base of wings, 
lateral spots on scutellum, fasciae on tergites 1-5, first interrupted, 
second, third, and fourth biemarginate dorsally and somewhat sinuate 


100 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL, 52. 


laterally on anterior border, and notched medially on both anterior 
and posterior borders, more evident on the latter, fifth deeply and 
acutely notched on posterior middle, central spot on sixth tergite, 
small lateral spots on sternites 2-5, femora distally, tibiae except 
spot below on first and second pairs, and tarsi, yellow. 

In both sexes the flagellum is tawny below and the pubescence is 
well developed, especially on the males. The eyes are widely separa- 
ted and their inner margins are approximately parallel. The wings 
are hyaline and the general build is somewhat robust. 

Length.—16-18 mm. 

This species seems to be intermediate between nubilipennis and 
spinolae, not so large as the former and a trifle larger and more robust 
than the latter. From the former the males of this speciss can be 
readily distinguished by the absence in this species of the secondary 
lateral processes on the sixth sternite and the presence of an evident 
spine on the fifth segment of the antennae. From the latter it may 
be distinguished by the flattened, roundly pointed process of the 
sixth sternite, the richer color of the maculations, which show less of 
the greenish tinge, and the presence of the spine on the fifth segment 
of the antennae, characters not found on spinolae. 

The female is distinguished from nubilipennis by its clear wings and 
from spinolae, and the light banded species closely related to it by the 
deeper yellow of the maculations, and from the yellow-maculated 
sumilans by the absence of any maculations upon the mesopleurae 
and metapleurae. 

Habitat. —Mexico, New Mexico, Arizona. 

Number of specimens B¥arsinddlMiatba! 11; Spates 


BEMBIX COMATA, new species. 
Figs. 163, 164, 165, 196. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, spot between antennae, broad anterior orbits, very narrow 
posterior orbits, broken line on posterior border of pronotum, posterior 
edge of tubercle continued in a line downward and spot on side of 
prothorax, spot on tegulae, short lateral lines on scutum, broad sinuate 
fasciae on tergites 1-6, all except the first continuous, apex of seventh 
tergite, lateral spots on sternites 2-6, femora distally, tibiae except 
stripe below on first pair, and tarsi, pale or greenish yellow or soiled 
white. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, spot between antennae, broad anterior orbits, narrow posterior 
orbits, broken line on posterior border of pronotum, tubercles, spot 
on sides of prothorax, spot on tegulae, short lateral lines on scutum 
above base of wings, lateral spots on scutellum, small spot on meso- 
pleurae, spot on sides of median segment, broad sinuate fasciae on 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 101 


tergites 1-5, all except first continuous, apex of sixth tergite, lateral 
spots on sternites 2-5, femora distally, tibiae except stripe below on 
all pairs, reduced in extent on posterior pair, and tarsi, pale or greenish 
yellow or sotled white. 

In both sexes the color is the same; the fasciae on the tergites are 
soiled white, the markings of the head more of a greenish yellow shade 
and the legs are pale yellow. The flagellum is black above, pale or 
testaceous below, and on the male segments 7-9 are spinose on the 
posterior border. The wings are hyaline, the nervures brown. The 
pubescence is white, relatively long and dense. The middle femora 
of the males are serrate-dentate below, the second sternite bears a 
prominent median process scarcely hooked at the posterior end and 
the sixth bears a smaller, pointed process. 

Length.—13-17 mm. 

This species is very closely related to spinolae on the one hand and 
primaaestate on the other. The males of this species differ from those 
of spinolae in having the fasciae on the tergites white, the apical ter- 
gite maculated and the greater development of the pubescence; from 
those of primaaestate in having the fasciae of the tergites white instead 
of yellow and in the absence of maculations on the sides of thorax and 
median segment. In the case of the female it differs from spinolae in 
having the apical tergite maculated and in the greater development 
of the pubescence. In some specimens of this species, however, the 
maculation of the apical tergite is obscured or even lacking. From 
primaaestate the female of this species is distinguished by the absence 
of conspicuous maculations on the thorax and median segment. 

Habitat.—California, Oregon, Washington, Vancouver, and New 
Mexico. 

Number of specimens examined.—Males, 21; females, 18. 

Type.—Cat. No. 19780, U.S.N.M. 


BEMBIX PRIMAAESTATE Johnson and Rohwer. 
Figs. 166, 167, 168, 197. 


Bembex primaaestate JouNson and Rouwer, Ent. News, vol. 19, 1908, p. 378, 
female. 

Bembex primaaestate Ronwer, Proc. U.S. Nat. Mus., vol. 41, 1912, p. 466, fig. 3, 
male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except tips, clypeus, scape 
and first two flagellar segments below, space between antennae, some- 
times spot below anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits shortened 
above, posterior orbits, usually posterior border of pronotum but not 
always, tubercles, sides of prothorax variable in extent, spot on tegulae, 
spot each on sides of median segment, metapleurae, and mesopleurae, 
on all three variable in extent or even lacking, broad fasciae on ter- 


102 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. vou. 52. 


gites 1-6, first interrupted more or less widely and usually narrowed 
somewhat toward the midline, remaining fasciae continuous though 
somewhat constricted at the dorsal midline, their borders sinuate 
especially the anterior, apex of seventh tergite, posterior lateral spots 
on sternites 2-6, femora more or less distally and below, tibiae except 
below on first pair, and tarsi, greenish yellow. The yellow on the legs 
lacks the greenish tinge. 

The pubescence on the head, thorax, base of abdomen, and the 
basal joints of the legs is white and unusually well developed. Seg- 
ments 7 and 8 of the flagellum are distinctly spinose on the posterior 
surface and on many specimens also 6 and 9, but less evidently so. 
The intermediate femora are dentate below. The second sternite 
bears a median, longitudinal process and the sixth a smaller, narrow, 
pointed process. 

Female.—Black: Clypeus, labrum, mandibles except tips, scape 
below, spot between antennae, frequently united with spot below 
anterior ocellus, anterior orbits, posterior orbits, posterior border of 
prothorax almost wholly, tegulae, narrow lateral lines on scutum, 
lateral spots on scutellum usually connected by a more or less evident 
line at posterior border of scutellum, fascia on metanotum, sometimes 
suppressed, spot on sides of median segment, spot on metapleurae, 
small posterior and larger anterior spot on mesopleurae, broad fasciae 
on tergites 1-5, first narrowly interrupted medially, remainder con- 
tinuous, each biemarginate on anterior dorsal border, deep and evi- 
dent on second and third, more wide and shallow on fourth and fifth, 
all with an acute emargination at the middle on posterior border, 
lateral spots on sternites 2-4, frequently connected by very narrow 
apical lines, femora distally more or less, tibiae except line below, and 
tarsi, greenish white or yellow. The markings on the thorax, median 
segment, and legs are yellow, elsewhere greenish white. 

Length.—13-17 mm. 

The pubescence is white and conspicuous but not so well developed 
as on the male. The flagellum is light on the lower surface, testa- 
ceous on the male, yellowish on the female. On most specimens the 
sixth tergite of the female is black; on some it is maculated and on 
some of these the dorsum of the median segment is also maculated. 
It is difficult to distinguish the less extensively maculated females of 
this species from the most extensively marked forms of spinolae, and 
likewise in many cases it is hard to separate the males from the males 
of sumilans. 

Habitat.—Colorado, Idaho, Washington, Vancouver, California, 
New Mexico, and Texas. 

Number of specimens examined.—Males, 39; females, 28. 


no.2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 103 


BEMBIX SIMILANS Fox. 
Figs. 5, 169, 170, 198. 


Bembex similans Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 358, female, male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape, 
and first flagellar segment below, lower part of frons, spot in front on 
anterior ocellus, sometimes wanting, broad anterior orbits, posterior 
orbits broader below, posterior border of pronotum, sides of prothorax 
except variable spot in front of tubercles, tegulae, lateral lines on 
scutum, lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on metanotum sometimes 
absent, sides of median segment, large spot on metapleurae, large 
irregular anterior and smaller posterior spot on mesopleurae, broad 
fasciae on tergites 1-6, first abruptly narrowed and usually interrupted 
medially, remaining fasciae continuous and strongly sinuate on an- 
terior border, the medial pair of sinuations on second and third most 
conspicuous, lateral spots on sternites 2-6, sometimes connected by 
apical lines, spot on coxae below, trochanters apically more or less, 
femora except basally and stripe on posterior surface of anterior pair, 
tibiae, and tarsi, yellow. 

Segments 7-9 of the flagellum are spinose on their posterior border 
and 10-11 bear shallow excavations or pits. The apical segment is 
but slightly curved, rounded apically and of uniform width. The 
middle femora are dentate below. The second sternite may or may 
not bear a small median process and the sixth a small short pointed 
one. The seventh is carinate medially. 

Female.—The color and maculations of the female are quite similar 
to those of the male, though the black on the legs is more extensive. 
On some specimens the tibiae are striped with black below. 

Length.—11-16 mm. 

We find some variation in both sexes. One male has all the fasciae 
on tergites continuous; two females have each a pair of discal marks 
on scutum, the lateral spots on the scutellum united and a well 
developed curved fascia on the dorsum of the median segment. The 
ultimate segment is usually black, but in the case of two females the 
ultimate tergite is broadly marked with yellow and others show a 
gradation from the black on the one extreme to the yellow on the 
other. The eyes are widely separated and in both sexes are dis- 
tinctly divergent at the vertex. The flagellum is yellowish or fulvous 
below. The head, thorax, and abdomen are covered with short, 
white, moderately dense pubescence, shorter on the abdomen than 
elsewhere and better developed on the male than on the female. The 
wings are hyaline, veins fulvous. According to Fox the scutum of 
the male is without pubescence; all the males before me have the 


104 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


scutum distinctly pubescent although the hairs here are somewhat 
shorter than elsewhere on the thorax. 

Habitat—New Mexico, Arizona, and Florida. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 7; females, 15. 


BEMBIX PRUINOSA Fox. 


Figs. 171, 172, 199. 
Bembex pruinosa Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 361, female, male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, space between antennae, anterior orbits, narrow posterior 
orbits, narrow line on posterior border of pronotum, rarely wanting, 
spot on tegulae, small lateral spot on scutum above base of wings, 
sometimes lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on metanotum some- 
times absent, occasionally one or two small spots on side of median 
segment, fasciae on tergites 1-6, all of which may be broad and con- 
tinuous or all may be somewhat narrowed and interrupted medially, 
in either case the anterior border being more or less sinuate on either 
side the midline, apex of ultimate tergite, posterior lateral spots on 
sternites 2-6 usually, though not always, connected by narrow apical 
lines, femora except broad stripe above and basally below, tibiae 
except stripe below, and tarsi, white or yellowish white. 

Segment 7 of the flagellum seen from above shows a rather con- 
spicuous though blunt spine on its posterior border and segments 
9-11 bear pits or excavations. The second sternite is smooth; the 
sixth bears a pair of low inconspicuous carinae that diverge basally; 
the seventh ends in a prominent spine that is broadly grooved ven- 
trally and bifid apically. The middle femora are smooth. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except 
black spot basally, rarely lacking, scape below, space between inser- 
tions of antennae, anterior orbits, posterior orbits, narrow posterior 
border of pronotum, small spot on tegulae, small lateral spots on 
scutum above base of wings, curved fascia, sometimes broken into 
spots, on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum 
of median segment sometimes interrupted medially, lower part of 
lateral angles of median segment sometimes reduced to narrow pos- 
terior lateral spots, occasionally small spot on mesopleurae, broad 
continous fasciae on tergites 1-5, the first narrowed medially, the 
remainder bisinuate on anterior border, lateral spots on sternites 2-5, 
which may or may not be connected by apical lines, tibiae except 
below and spot on posterior border of anterior pair, and tarsi, white or 
yellowish whate. 

Length.—16-19 mm. 

In both sexes the flagellum is yellowish or tawny below and the 
apical segment is reddish. The head, thorax, median segment, and 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 105 


base of abdomen are covered with dense, moderately short pubescence 
shortest on the scutum, where it is of a brownish color. The remain- 
ing segments of the abdomen are covered dorsally with close, fine 
pubescence, longest on the more apical segments and more evident 
on the male than on the female. The wings are hyaline, veins dark 
brown. The eyes are parallel or slightly divergent beneath. In 
some males the carinae on the sixth sternite are reduced or lacking. 
The variation in the maculations is not great in either sex, but in 
both a part or all of the tergal fasciae may be narrowed and inter- 
rupted medially. The species is well marked and not likely to be 
confused with any other species herein described. 

Halhitat—New York, Ohio, New Jersey, Florida, Texas, Kansas, 
Iowa, New Mexico, California, Oregon, and Canada. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 13; females, 17. 


BEMBIX BEUTENMULLERI Fox. 


Figs. 173, 174, 200. 


Bembex beutenmullerit Fox, Journ. N. Y. Ent. Soc., vol. 9, 1901, p. 83, male. 

Bembex obsoleta Howarp, Insect Book, 1904, pl. 4, fig. 36. 

Bembyz obsoleta RonweEr, Proc. U.S. Nat. Mus., vol. 41, 1912, p. 467, figs. 6, 7, 8, 
male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, spot 
between antennae, small spot in front of anterior ocellus, scape 
below, anterior orbits, posterior orbits wanting or reduced to small 
spots near the lower border of eye, sometimes one or more small spots 
on sides of prothorax, spot on tegulae, small lateral spots above base 
of wings on scutum, lateral spots on tergites 1-5, lateral spots on 
sternites 2-5 and sometimes 6, which may be connected by very fine 
apical lines, femora distally more or less, tibiae except more or less 
above, and tarsi, yellow. 

Segments 3-6 of the flagellum are indistinctly carinate on the 
posterior surface; seen from above 7 appears slightly bispinose, due 
to the presence of a small pit on the posterior surface; segments 9-11 
bear larger pits. The eyes are slightly divergent at the clypeus. 
The middle femora are smooth. The second sternite bears a median 
longitudinal carina never very strongly developed; the sixth bears a 
pair of small closely approximated median processes near its apical 
border, and the seventh ends in a median spine grooved on its ventral 
surface. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, spot 
between antennae, small spot in front of anterior ocellus, scape 
below, anterior orbits, posterior orbits interrupted above, pair of small 
lateral spots on posterior border of pronotum, pair of larger spots 
on sides of prothorax, the more posterior including part of the 
tubercles, spot on tegulae, small spots on scutum above base of 


106 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


wings, small spots on sides of median segment, lateral spots on ter- 
gites 2-5, lateral spots on sternites 2-5 connected by faint apical 
lines, femora distally more or less, tibiae below more or less, and 
tarsi, yellow. The eyes are distinctly divergent toward the clypeus, 
more so than in the male. The ultimate segment of the tarsi are 
relatively long and are slender at the base, particularly those of the 
anterior pair. 

Length.—17-19 mm. 

The resemblance of the male and female is quite close, and in both 
the head, thorax, median segment and base of abdomen are covered 
with relatively short, white pubescence. The punctation of the dor- 
sum of the thorax is fine, close, and regular. The vertex is depressed 
between the eyes, its middle being noticeably lower than the level 
of the top of the eyes. The wings are hyaline, veins brown. The 
flagellum is tawny or fulvous below, lighter in the female than in the 
male. This species in general appearances resembles very much 
hinei, from which it can be distinguished in the male by the presence 
in this species of the ventral processes on the second and sixth ster- 
nites and the form of the genital stipes, and in the female by the 
divergent eyes and the character of the ultimate segment of the 
anterior tarsi. 

The type and three paratypes (in the New York Museum of Natural 
History) are much darker than the specimens on which this descrip- 
tion is based. In three of the specimens the clypeus is marked with 
black basally, none show yellow on the scutum, in all the yellow 
marks on the abdomen are reduced or wanting and the yellow on the 
legs is less extensive. In structural characters there are no differ- 
ences. 

Habitat.—California. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 13; females, 1. 


BEMBIX OCCIDENTALIS Fox. 
Figs. 175, 176, 201. 


Bembex occidentalis Fox, Proc. Cal. Acad. Sci., (2) vol. 4, 1893, p. 10, female, 
male. 

Bembex occidentalis HanpurrscH, Sitz. Acad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl., 
vol. 102, 1893, p. 868, pl. 3, fig. 13; pl. 7, fig. 38. 

Bembex occidentalis Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 362. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clipeus, scape 
below, median line on frons extending from between antennae to 
anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, prothorax almost entirely, 
lateral lines on scutum sometimes shortened, pair of longitudinal 
discal lines on scutum, which lines may be developed into a broken 
U-shaped mark, fascia on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, curved 
fascia on dorsum of median segment sometimes interrupted medially, 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 107 


lateral angles of median segment and sides of same emarginate above, 
metapleurae, greater part of mesopleurae, broad fasciae on tergites 
1-6, first with a more or less extensive medial anterior emargination 
or inclosing a closely placed medial anterior pair of black spots, second 
inclosing a pair of dorsal oval black spots that appear in the form of 
emarginations on some specimens, third to sixth biemarginate on 
anterior dorsal margin less evident on the more posterior ones, apex 
of seventh, second sternite except median black line and rarely small 
anterior lateral spots, third except triangular median anterior black 
spot, fourth except wide but shallow anterior emargination, narrow 
biemarginate fascia on fifth, broader fascia on sixth usually with a 
small triangular median emargination, legs entirely except variable 
black spots on coxae and trochanters, yellow. 

Segments 6-8 of the flagellum are very slightly spinose on the pos- 
terior border. The middle femora are smooth and the middle tibiae 
normal. The second sternite bears a more or less prominent median 
longitudinal carina, and the sixth a pair of small closely approxi- 
mated processes that diverge slightly toward the base of the segment. 
When viewed from the side these processes appear as one. The 
seventh ends in a spine that in some cases is slightly bifid at the 
apex. The genital stipes, although maintaining the general design, 
varies somewhat in development. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, an- 
terior orbits, median vertical line on frons, scape below, posterior 
orbits sometimes prolonged above on occiput, prothorax except 
median anterior dorsal spot, tegulae, lateral limes on scutum, pair of 
longitudinal discal lines on scutum, sometimes wanting and sometimes 
developed into more or less perfect U-shaped mark, fascia on scutel- 
lum, fascia on metanotum, lateral angles of median segment and sides 
of same emarginate above, metapleurae, mesopleurae almost entirely, 
broad fascia on tergites 1-5, first with a broad shallow medial anterior 
emargination or inclosing two small black spots, second inclosing a 
pair of transverse oval black spots, third frequently similar to the 
second or biemarginate on anterior margin, fourth and fifth bi- 
emarginate on anterior border, apex of sixth, second sterfnite except 
medial black spot, third except medial anterior black spot, fasciae on 
fourth and fifth rather narrow and usually biemarginate on anterior 
border, apex of sixth, legs except a variable amount of black on coxae 
and trochanters, yellow. 

Length.—16-20 mm. 

This species is conspicuous for its extensive bright yellow markings. 
In both male and female the eyes are distinctly divergent at the cly- 
peus and in nearly all specimens are golden yellow in the dried speci- 
mens. The flagellum is comparatively slender and is yellow below, 
more so in the female than in the male. The second segment in both 


108 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


male and female exceeds the combined length of the third and fourth. 
The mandibles on both male and female are remarkably straight, 
scarcely curved at the tip, more slender than usual and almost devoid 
of teeth on the inner border. The reduction of the teeth on the female 
is very unusual; only one is present and that is vestigial. The 
pubescence on the head and base of clypeus is long and rather dense; 
elsewhere on the body it is sparse and quite short. The wings are 
hyaline and veins brown. The markings on the dorsum of the thorax 
and median segment in both sexes are variable; at one extreme we 
find only short lateral lines on scutum, small lateral spots on scutel- 
lum and the lateral angles marked with yellow; at the other, broad 
lateral lines and U-shaped mark on scutum and broad fasciae on 
scutellum, metanotum and median segment. 

Habitat—Lower California, California, New Mexico, and Arizona. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 7; females, 14. 


BEMBIX TROGLODYTES Handlirsch. 
Figs. 177, 178, 202. 


Bembex troglodytes HanpurrscH, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl., 
vol. 102, 1893, p. 829, pl. 2, fig. 29, male, female. 

Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, lower 
part of frons, scape except stripe above, spot in front of anterior 
ocellus, lateral rounded spot on either side of this one, broad anterior 
orbits, posterior orbits, prothorax almost entirely, tegulae, lateral 
lines and pair of short discal lines on scutum, lateral spots more or 
less approximated medially on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, 
curved fascia on dorsum of median segment usually interrupted 
medially on the posterior surface of the segment, lateral angles and 
sides of the segment, metapleurae, large irregular anterior spot and 
small posterior one on mesopleurae, broad fasciae on tergites 1-6, 
first narrowly interrupted medially, remainder continuous, second 
inclosing pair of rounded dorsal spots, third with a similar pair of 
spots that are usually connected to the anterior black margin, fourth 
with a pair of anterior emarginations instead of spots, fifth and sixth 
slightly sinuate, apex of ultimate tergite, apical border of first 
sternite, broad apical fascia on second, sometimes inclosing a pair of 
black spots, lateral spots on 3-5 which may be connected by broad 
apical bands, narrow ones or not at all, sometimes pair of small 
lateral spots on 6, spot on coxae, trochanters more or less, femora 
except more or less basally and stripe below on anterior pair, tibiae 
except sometimes small spot below on anterior pair, and tarsi, lemon 
yellow. 

The flagellum is neither spinose nor dentate; segments 4-11 bear 
specialized areas on their posterior surface, but these do not assume 
the form of pits or excavations. The middle femora are smooth 


No. 2173. A RHVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 109 


below. The second sternite usually bears a prominent median 
tubercle, but this may appear as a small median carina or be almost 
entirely lacking; the sixth bears a prominent median process, flat- 
tened, broad at base, pointed or slightly truncate at apex and directed 
obliquely backward. In one specimen this process is decidedly 
truncate apically and in another smaller one it is almost entirely 
reduced. There is some variation in the form of the genital stipes, 
but the figures given show the type. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except 
pair of black spots basally, spot between insertions of antennae, 
transverse row of three (or five) spots in front of anterior ocellus, 
scape below, anterior orbits, posterior orbits, prothorax except 
anterior median dorsal spot and spot in front of tubercles, tegulae, 
lateral lines and short pair of discal lines on scutum, lateral spots 
(sometimes united into a fascia) on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, 
curved fascia on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles and sides 
of median segment, metapleurae, mesopleurae almost entirely, 
fasciae on tergites 1-5, first narrowed and also interrupted medially, 
remainder continuous, second as in the male inclosing a pair of 
dorsal spots, third having a similar pair connected with the anterior 
black border and having on posterior border a deep median notch 
and lateral sinuations, fourth and fifth each with pair of shallow 
anterior emarginations and median posterior triangular emargina- 
tion, apex of ultimate tergite, lateral spots on sternites 2-5, all or 
part of which may be connected by narrow apical lines, spot on 
anterior and middle coxae below, femora except stripe above and 
more or less basally below, tibiae except stripe on anterior pair below, 
and tarsi, lemon yellow with a tinge of greenish in places. 

Length.—14-16 mm. 

The five females before me vary somewhat in regard to color. 
Two have the clypeus and the frons, except the spot between the 
antennae and those in front of the anterior ocellus, entirely black, 
and four of the five have a median posterior discal mark on the 
scutum. In the male there is less variation in color, only one of the 
entire number being without discal marks on the scutum. 

The wings in both sexes are hyaline and the pubescence and 
punctation are of the normal character. 

Habitat.—Mexico, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 11; females, 5. 


BEMBIX MELANASPIS, new species. 
Figs. 179, 180, 203. 
Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 


below, frons below, small spot in front of anterior ocellus and a small 
round spot on either side of this one, broad anterior orbits narrowed 


110 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


above and also deflected inward from the margin of the eye, posterior 
orbits, posterior border of pronotum, sides of prothorax and tubercles 
except irregular elongated spot in front of the latter, spot on tegulae, 
small lateral spot on scutum above base of wings, triangular lateral 
spots on scutellum, curved fascia on metanotum, lateral angles, con- 
tinued in form of spot on sides of median segment, small spot at 
spiracles on same, spot on metapleurae, spot on mesopleurae elon- 
gated vertically, broad fasciae on tergites 1-5, the first slightly 
attenuated and narrowly interrupted medially, remainder continu- 
ous, biemarginate anteriorly and triangularly notched at the middle 
on posterior border, pair of spots on sixth and seventh tergites, 
broad fascia on second sternite, fascia on third broadly and deeply 
biemarginate on anterior border, fascia on fourth similar to that on 
third but with anterior emarginations much enlarged, lateral spots 
on fifth and sixth, spot on coxae below, femora except short basal 
markings, tibiae, and tarsi, yellow. Marks on scutellum and meta- 
notum are nearly white. 

The flagellum is simple, neither dentate nor spinose, but segments 
5-11 on the posterior surface bear shallow pits. The ultimate seg- 
ment is very slightly curved and rounded at the apex. The middle 
femora are smooth and the posterior pair is provided with long white 
pubescence below. The second sternite bears a prominent hooked 
process and the seventh a prominent median process, triangular in 
form, obliquely directed backward, broad at base, flat on the ventral 
surface, and bluntly pointed at the apex. 

Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, narrow apical 
border and lateral apical angles of clypeus, spot between antennae, 
spot in front of anterior ocellus and a small rounded spot on either 
side of this one, anterior orbits deflected inward from the margin 
of the eye above, posterior orbits, prothorax almost entirely, lateral 
lines on scutum, pair of anterior longitudinal and a posterior trans- 
verse discal mark on scutum, fascia on scutellum, broad laterally, nar- 
row medially, fascia on metanotum, broad curved fascia on dorsum 
of median segment extended downward medially on its posterior 
surface, sides of mesothorax and metathorax and median segment 
almost entirely, broad continuous fasciae on tergites 1-5, first emar- 
ginate on posterior and anterior middle, second and third each inclos- 
ing a pair of elliptical dorsal black spots, fourth and fifth each with a 
pair of anterior emarginations corresponding to the black spots of 
the preceding segments, ultimate tergite with a pair of apical spots, 
lateral spots on sternites 1-5 connected by apical lines, the one on 
second sternite broad and inclosing black spots, spot on coxae, femora 
except basally and stripe on anterior pair above, tibiae, and tarsi, 
yellow. 


no.2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 111 


The pubescence is relatively short, white, and moderately dense, 
more in evidence on the male than on the female. The flagellum is 
black with a shade of reddish below on the more apical segments. On 
the female the scape is black. The frons just above the insertion of 
the antennae is about equal to the width of the eye at the same level. 
The eyes diverge at the vertex and also a trifle at the clypeus. The 
wings of the male are slightly but distinctly infumated medially; 
those of the female are heavily infumated, resembling those of 
nubilipennis Cresson in this respect. 

Length.—19-22 mm. 

One of the males has only a vestige of the process on the second 
sternite. The sixth tergite of one male has a complete fascia; on the 
type it has only a pair of yellow spots and on a third it is entirely 
devoid of yellow. On one female the clypeus, antennae, and frons, 
except the spot between the antenne and the three small spots in 
front of the anterior ocellus, are entirely black. A single female 
from Arizona has been placed in this species. It has the narrow 
frons and infumated wings, but the black on the clypeus has been 
reduced to two small basal spots and the scape is broadly yellow below. 

This species stands close to nubilipennis Cresson from which it can 
readily be distinguished in the male by the nonspinose antennae and 
_ the simple middle femora. The female differs from Cresson’s species 
by the presence of the black on the clypeus and by the much narrower 
frons, which in nubilipenmis is much wider than the eye at the point 
just above the insertion of the antennae. Described from three 
males and four females. 

Habitat.—California, Arizona. 

Type, allotype, and paratypes.—Cat. No. 19808, U.S.N.M. 


BEMBIX TEXANA Cresson. 
Figs. 181, 182, 204. 


Bembex texana Cresson, Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 4, 1872, p. 219, female. 
Bembex texana Hanpurrscu, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl., 
vol. 102, 1893, p. 830, pl. 2, fig. 30; pl. 7, fig. 21, female, male. 


Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, space between insertions of antennae, small rounded spot on 
either side anterior ocellus, anterior orbits, posterior orbits, line on 
posterior border of pronotum and propleurae including tubercles, 
spot on sides of prothorax, spot on tegulae, short line above base of 
wings on scutum, small lateral spots on scutellum, sometimes small 
spot on lateral angles of median segment, usually a small spot on 
metapleurae above base of middle legs, narrow rectangular spot on 
mesopleurae, fasciae on tergites 1-6, first broad and interrupted 
medially, second continuous, inclosing a pair.of black spots dorsally 
and constricted medially, third, fourth, and fifth interrupted medially 


112 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. vou. 52. 


and emarginate anteriorly on either side the midline, sixth continu- 
ous, small lateral spots on ultimate tergite, posterior lateral spots on 
sternites 1-6 the more anterior ones usually connected by narrow 
apical lines, spot on anterior and middle coxae below, femora except 
broad stripe above and basally below, tibiae except stripe below on 
anterior and middle pairs and on posterior border of anterior pair, 
and tarsi, white, more or less strongly tinged with yellow on head 
and legs. 

Segments 4-11 of the flagellum bear specialized areas on their 
posterior surface, which, on the more apical ones, take the form of 
shallow pits. The apical segment is not curved, is a trifle longer than 
the preceding segment, and is about equal to it in width. The 
middle femora are smooth. The second sternite usually bears a more 
or less well developed median carina, but sometimes this is entirely 
lacking. The sixth bears a well developed process, broadly trian- 
gular basally and sharply pointed posteriorly; the seventh bears an 
evident median longitudinal carina which is bordered on either side 
basally by a shorter one. 

Female.—Black: Labrum except a medial stripe or basal spot in 
some specimens, clypeus except a pair of basal spots that may be 
contiguous, mandibles except apices, scape below, space between 
insertions of antennae, small rounded spot on either side anterior 
ocellus, sometimes spot beneath it, anterior orbits, posterior orbits, 
posterior border of pronotum continued on the sides of prothorax and 
including tubercles, also spot on sides of prothorax, spot on tegulae, 
usually small spot above base of wings on scutum, small lateral spots 
on scutellum, spot on sides of median segment near lateral angles 
and another on metapleurae not always present, narrow rectangular 
spot on mesopleurae, fasciae on tergites 1-5, first broad and inter- 
rupted and somewhat narrowed medially, second continuous inclos- 
ing a pair of elliptical black spots dorsally and constricted medially, 
remaining fasciae interrupted or continuous, biemarginate on anterior 
border and curved forward on posterior border on either side the 
midline, lateral spots on sternites 1-5 which may or may not be con- 
nected by apical lines, spot on anterior and middle coxae below, 
femora distally more or less, tibiae except stripe below and also stripe 
on posterior border of anterior pair, and tarsi, yellowish white or pale 
yellow. 

Length.—15-18 mm. 

In both sexes the head, thorax, and abdomen are covered with 
rather short and dense pale pubescence, shorter on scutum and 
abdomen except the basal segment. The wings of the female show 
a slight infumation medially; those of the male show hardly a trace of 
this. The females invariably have the two black spots on the base 
of the clypeus, but these spots vary in development. On some 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 113 


specimens there are lateral spots on the ultimate tergite and in a 
few cases all the tergal fasciae are interrupted medially. The black 
spots in the second tergal fascia are sometimes united with the 
anterior black border. In the male these spots are usually so con- 
nected and fasciae 1 and 4 are almost invariably interrupted, and 
sometimes 3 and 6 also. The second fascia in the male is always 
continuous. This is a well-marked species, one not likely to be 
confused with any other species thus far discovered within the 
territory covered by this paper. 

Habitat.—Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and New Mexico. 

Number of specimens examined—Male, 58; females, 27. 


BEMBIX HELIANTHOPOLIS, new species. 


Figs. 183, 184, 205. 


Female.—Black: Spot on mandibles, lateral borders of labrum 
slightly, spot between insertions of antennae, small spot in front 
of anterior ocellus, small spot on either side of this one, posterior 
orbits, posterior border of pronotum and sides of prothorax except 
spot in front of tubercles, spot on tegulae, lateral lines on scutum, 
pair of short anterior discal lines and median posterior spot on 
scutum, lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, curved 
fascia on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles and most of the 
side of median segment, large spot on metapleurae, large spot and a 
second smaller one on mesopleurae, relatively broad fasciae on dorsal 
abdominal segments 1-5, first interrupted medially, remainder con- 
tinuous but notched on midline, second inclosing a pair of black 
spots, third similar to second, fourth and fifth each with shallow 
anterior emargination on either side the midline, lateral spots on 
sternites 1-5, spot on anterior coxae below, femora distally more or 
less, tibiae except stripe on inner and posterior surfaces, and tarsi, 
yellow or greenish yellow. The marks on the scutellum and meta- 
notum are white. The eyes are divergent at the vertex and the 
flagellum is but slightly testaceous below. 

Male.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus except 
small transverse medial spot at base, scape below, space between 
insertions of antennae, broad anterior orbits, small spot in front 
of anterior ocellus, small rounded spot on either side of this one, 
narrow posterior orbits, posterior border of prothorax including 
tubercles, spot on sides of prothorax, spot on tegulae, small spot on 
base of anterior wing, spot on scutum above base of wing, lateral 
spots on scutellum, lateral angles of median segment, two small 
spots on sides of same, large spot on metapleurae, two spots on meso- 
pleurae, the upper the larger, relatively broad fasciae on tergites 1-5, 
first interrupted medially, remainder continuous but notched on 

65008°—Proe,N.M.vol.52—17——8 


114 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


both sides at the midline, second inclosing a pair of dorsal black 
spots, third with a pair of anterior emarginations replacmg the 
spots of the second, fourth and fifth with a shallow emargination on 
either side the midline, sixth and seventh with a medial spot apically, 
lateral spots on sternites 1-5 connected on one and two by narrow 
apical lines, small medial posterior spot on two, spot on anterior and 
middle coxae below, femora except more or less basally, tibiae, 
and tarsi, yellow. The spots on the scutum and scutellum are white. 

The flagellum is testaceous below and is neither spinose nor den- 
tate. Segments 4-11 bear small pits on the posterior surface and 
the ultimate segment is short, scarcely exceeding the length of the 
preceding segment, curved and rounded at the apex. The eyes are 
widely separated and are slightly divergent above. The middle 
femora are smooth. The second sternite bears a prominent median 
tubercle slightly curved posteriorly; the sixth bears a median, tri- 
angular, pointed process whose ventral surface is flattened or slightly 
concave, and the seventh bears a median carina that is bordered 
basally on either side by a shorter one. 

Length.—4-17 mm. 

The pubescence is pale, moderately long and dense, shortest on the 
scutum and abdomen and about equally well developed on male and 
female. The wings are hyaline and veins brown. The yellow 
markings have a greenish tinge and the black is intense, resembling 
in this respect the color of B. belfraget. The lateral angles of the 
median segment are somewhat prominent. The dark color on the 
legs is irregularly distributed, especially on the tarsi. 

There is some variation in the maculations of the female; those 
on the scutum may be reduced to short lateral lines above the base 
of the wings; the fascia on the median segment may be interrupted 
medially; the marking of the mesopleura may be reduced to a single 
small spot; and the inclosed black spots on the second and third tergal 
fasciae may appear as deep anterior emarginations. The female of 
this species, which stands close to troglodytes Handlirsch, has the 
labrum, scape of flagellum, and ultimate tergite black, whereas 
troglodytes has these parts yellow or maculated with yellow. On 
the male the scutum, metanotum, and dorsum of median segment 
are black; on éroglodytes the metanotum and dorsum of median seg- 
ment each bears a fascia and the scutum a pair of discal marks. 
The genital stipites of the two also differ. 

Habitat.—Kansas, Texas. 

Number of specimens examined—Females, 7; males, 1. 

Type (female).—Allotype, and paratypes in the collection of the 
University of Kansas. 

Paratype.—Cat. No. 19885, U.S.N.M. 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 115 


BEMBIX CONNEXA Fox. 
Bembex connexus Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 360, female, male. 


Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape, 
and more or less of the flagellum below, lower part of frons, spot before 
anterior ocellus, broad anterior orbits, posterior orbits broad below, 
sides of prothorax almost entirely, frequently more or less complete 
narrow line on posterior border of pronotum, lateral lines on scutum 
usually abbreviated and sometimes wanting, sometimes small lateral 
spots on scutellum, more or less of the side of the median segment, 
spot on metapleurae, spot on mesopleurae, broad fasciae on tergites, 
first interrupted and attenuated toward mid-dorsal line, second inclos- 
ing pair of elliptical transverse dorsal spots or bearing a pair of 
anterior dorsal emarginations and notched at midline on both mar- 
gins, third similar to the second, fourth, and fifth each bearing a 
pair of anterior dorsal emarginations and interrupted medially or 
continuous, apex of ultimate tergite, lateral spots on sternites 2-5 
and sometimes 6, median posterior spot on sternites 2-5 in some 
specimens, on 2-4 in others, and entirely lacking in still others, 
apical lines connecting the ventral spots on some specimens, spots 
on anterior and middle coxae, greater part of femora, tibiae, and 
tarsi, yellow. 

The pubescence is white, tolerably dense, longest on the head, 
somewhat shorter on the thorax and base of abdomen. The thorax 
is closely and evenly punctated; the punctations of the ultimate 
tergite are coarser than that of the thorax and the sides of the segment 
are provided with long white pubescence amid which are found 
several short black spines. 

The male is smaller. There is a broad yellow line on the posterior 
border of the pronotum and the sides of the prothorax are almost 
wholly yellow. There are conspicuous lateral lines on the scutum, 
lateral spots on the scutellum, fascia on metanotum, lateral spots 
on dorsum and spots on the posterior surface of the median segment, 
its lateral angles and sides broadly, and sides of mesopleurae and 
metapleurae almost entirely yellow. The fasciae on the tergites are 
broad and, except the first, continuous. The second incloses a small 
pair of black spots; 3-5 are biemarginate on anterior dorsal margin, 
and the seventh is maculated apically. There are lateral spots on 
the sternites but none are connected by apical lines. In other 
respects the maculations are similar to those of the female. Segments 
6-8 of the flagellum are spinose on the posterior surface. The middle 
femora are serrate. The second sternite bears a well developed 
process and the sixth a smaller one. 

Length.—16-20 mm. 

This species is large and robust, conspicuous for its intense black 
color and bright greenish yellow markings. Not a great deal of 


116 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


variation is present in the maculations. On one specimen there is a 
pair of faint discal lines on the scutum and on all there is a more or 
less suppressed dusky band down the middle of the labrum. This is 
usually reduced to a dusky spot at the base of the labrum but in one 
specimen it forms a black median stripe the full length of that organ. 

On Fox’s type (female) of this species the yellow on the dorsum of the 
mesothorax is limited to small lateral spots on the scutum; the meta- 
notum and dorsum of median segment are not maculated. The sides 
of the thorax and median segment, however, are broadly maculated. 
The color of the fasciae on the tergites is whitish like that of texana. 
None of them inclose black spots, the first and fifth are interrupted, 
the second and third are not notched at all posteriorly, and the 
fourth is but slightly so. The emarginations on 2-4 are shallow and 
widely separated. The lateral spots on the sternites are connected 
and there is a median spot on 2-5. The sixth sternite has a pair of 
lateral spots and all ventral maculations are yellow. 

Habitat.— Utah, California, Nevada. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 1; females, 8. 


BEMBIX LATIFRONS, new species. 


Female.—Black: Labrum, mandibles except apices, clypeus, scape 
below, broad anterior orbits deflected inwardly at the vertex, lower 
part of frons prolonged upward to unite with a spot below anterior 
ocellus, spot on either side the central one confluent with the anterior 
orbits, broad posterior orbits prolonged upon the vertex, prothorax 
entirely, tegulae, lateral lines on scutum very broad anteriorly, 
U-shaped discal mark on scutum consisting of a pair of longi- 
tudinal marks broad anteriorly but greatly narrowed posteriorly 
where they unite with a broad transverse rectangualr mark, fascia 
on scutellum narrowed medially, metanotum, broad curved fascai 
on dorsum of median segment, posterior surface, lateral angles and 
sides of same entirely, mesopleurae and metapleurae entirely except 
very narrow lines on sutures, median longitudinal stripe on meso- 
sternum, very broad fasciae on tergites 1-5, first inclosing a pair of 
closely approximated black spots (confluent with the black base) 
and showing a shallow emargination on posterior middle, second and 
third each inclosing a pair of narrow, widely separated elliptica 
black spots and acutely emarginate on posterior middle, fourth and 
fifth biemarginate on anterior border, dorsal surface of ultimate 
tergite, broad fascia and pair of anterior spots on second sternite, 
broad fascia inclosing a pair of small black spots on third, fascia 
broadly emarginate on fourth, lateral spots on fifth, coxae and tro- 
chanters in part, femora except narrow stripe on posterior surface of 
first pair and short basal marks on anterior surface of second and third 
pairs, tibiae except narrow line on posterior surface of first pair, and 
tarsi, yellow. 


NO, 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKEER. 117 


The flagellum is tawny below, growing lighter toward the apex. 
The second flagellar segment is not quite equal in length to the com- 
bined length of the third and fourth. The ultimate segment is 
slightly curved, exceeds the length of the segment immediately pre- 
ceding it, but is not equal to the combined length of the two immedi- 
ately preceding it. The frons is wide, exceeding the width of the eye 
at the level of the insertion of the antennae, and the inner borders of 
the eyes are almost parallel. The wings are long, reaching almost 
to the tip of the abdomen, hyaline and the veins are brown. The 
pubescence is white; on the head it is tolerably long and dense; that 
on the thorax, median segment and base of abdomen is shorter but 
equally dense; elsewhere on the abdomen it is very short, rather dense 
and semi-erect. ‘The punctation is of the usual character. 

Lengith.—17 mm. 

This form runs in Handlirsch’s table, although not accurately, to 
B. occidentalis Fox; in Fox’s table it runs to B. U-scripta Fox. It 
differs from occidentalis in the broad frons, the eyes being not at all 
divergent at the clypeus, in the form of the mandibles and in the rela- 
tive length of the second flagellar segment; it differs from U-scripta 
in the normal form of the ocelli and in the character of the develop- 
ment of the ultimate tergite. Furthermore, it differs from both of 
these species in the character of the maculations on the sternites. 

Described from a single specimen collected by F. H. Snow at Albu- 
querque, New Mexico, in the year 1894. 

Type.—Female, in the collection of the University of Kansas. 


Genus MICROBEMBEX Patton. 


Microbembex Patton, Bull. U. 8. Geol. Surv., vol. 5, 1879, p. 364. 

B. Bembeces aberantes Hanpurrscn, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.-Nat. 
Cl., vol. 102, 1893, p. 878. 

Bembex Fox (part), Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1894, p. 303. 

Microbembex Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 363. 

Microbembex Kouu, Die Gatt. d. Spheg., 1896, p. 434. 


Type.—Bembex monodonta Say by original designation. 

The wasps belonging to this genus vary in length from 8 to 14 milli- 
meters and are relatively more slender than those of the genus Bembiz. 
The head is equal in width to the thorax. The compound eyes are 
large, convex, and naked. The facets near the inner border are very 
slightly larger than those near the outer; this is more evident on the 
male than on the female. The inner margins of the eyes are prac- 
tically parallel and the lower border reaches the mandible. The 
ocellar cicatrices are similar to those of the genus Bembiz, but are 
almost concealed by the dense pubescence on the frons and vertex. 
The occiput is very narrow, the posterior surface of the head concave, 
and the temples almost wanting. The mandibles are long, slender, 
pointed, and devoid of teeth. The maxillae are comparatively long, 


118 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


but when folded are concealed behind the labrum. The maxillary 
_palpus is composed of three segments, the labial of one. The labrum 
at the apex is conical and truncate, but is flat at the base where it 
joins the curved distal border of the clypeus. On some specimens the 
labrum shows a slight median longitudinal depression. The clypeus 
is very strongly arched, in fact almost angular, and the distal part of 
the median prominence is devoid of pubescence, smooth, and shining. 
The distal margin is strongly curved, almost semicircular. The an- 
tennae, which are inserted on the frons, apparently on the suture 
joining the frons and clypeus, are composed of 13 segments in the 
male and of 12 in the female. The scape is heavy and exceeds in 
length any segment of the flagellum. The first segment of the flagel- 
lum (pedicel) is short, about as long as thick, and the second exceeds 
in length any of the following segments. Some of the flagellar seg- 
ments on the male bear secondary sexual modifications. 

The thorax is quite similar to that of Bembiz, but the abdomen is 
more slender. The ultimate tergite of the female is arched and 
strongly punctate except on the midline, where there is evidence of 
a slight longitudinal carina. Laterally the tergite is beset with short 
spines and it terminates in a median notch, the sides of which may 
be prolonged into evident spines. The second sternite of the male 
bears a median process that by its form and development affords 
specific characters. 

The male genitalia consist of a basal piece (cardo), paired stipites, 
paired sagittae, and median spatha. The base of the stipes is heavy, 
but the distai part is slender and hirsute and varies in form with the 
different species. The spatha is short and heavy and distally is cleft 
below. Near the distal end on either side is a conspicuous rounded 
enlargement, and the apex is in the form of a tube split below. The 
sagitta is composed of two parts; the inferior one is short, sparingly 
hirsute, and more or less concealed; the superior part is strongly 
chitinized, curved, compressed, dilated distally, and truncate 
apically. 

The legs are moderately long and slender., On the female the first 
four segments of the anterior tarsus are flattened and the posterior 
distal angle is greatly prolonged. These four segments are provided 
with long strong pines that form the tarsal comb used in burrowing. 
On the male the comb is present but not so well developed. The 
wings may be infumated or entirely hyaline. On the anterior wing 
the radial cell is pointed at either end and the distal end does not lie 
on the costal border. The first cubital cell is as long as the second 
and third combined. The second cubital cell is narrower on the 
radial vein than it is on the cubitus, and it receives both discoidal 
cross veins. The first cubital cross vein is straight, and the third, 
which curves toward the distal extremity of the wing, forms with the 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 119 


radius in most cases an acute angle, but in some cases a right angle. 
The second submedian cell is about equal in length to the first and 
increases in width from its proximal to its distal extremity. 

On the posterior wing the retinaculum, composed of a row of small 
hooklets, arises at the origin of the radial vein. The median cell is 
greatly elongated, and from its distal end two short veins extend 
toward the distal border of the wing. The cubitus arises distal to the 
end of the submedian cell, whose posterior distal angle, formed by 
the submedian and submedian cross veins, is obtuse. 

The ground color of the body is black, but in teneral specimens this 
may appear brown. The color of the maculations varies from pale- 
yellowish white to rich orange yellow. 


KEY TO SPECIES. 


Males. 
1. Process on second sternite long and curved (fig. 218); clypeus, large spot on 
mesopleura and large discal spots on scutum yellow........-......----.-- aurata. 
1. Process on second sternite otherwise formed; above combination of maculations 
MEM ee sa ie te aan eae wap aig were b in a(as wma mut Sire’ ain = ane 2. 
2. Process on second sternite hirsute; genital stipes as in fig. 224..........-. hirsuta. 
2. Process on second sternite smooth; genital stipes as in fig. 226........ monodonta. 
Females. 


1. Pubescence on head, thorax, and median segment unusually long and dense, very 


conspicuous on dorsum of median segment.......-..---.-------------- hirsuta. 
1. Pubescence not unusually long and dense...........--.-------00-e- seen eee eee 2. 
2. Clypeus, scape, mesopleura, and large discal spots on scutum yellow.....-.- aurata. 
2. Combination of maculations as given above not present........-.------ monodonta. 


MICROBEMBEX MONODONTA Say. 
Figs. 6, 219, 225-230. 


Bembex monodonta Say, Nar. Exp. St. Peters River, Append., 1824, p. 335. 

Bembex ciliata LEPELETIER, Hist. Nat., vol. 3, 1845, p. 279. 

Bembex monodonia LeConte, Say’s Complete Writings, 1859, p. 226, male. 

Bembex argentifrons Cresson, Proc. Ent. Soc. Phila., vol. 4, 1865, p. 141. 

Microbembex monodonta Patron, Bull. U. 8. Geol. Surv., vol. 5, 1879, p. 362. 

Monedula nigrifrons PRovANCHER, Add. Faun. Can., p. 362, male, female. 

Bembex monodonta Hanpurrsca#, Sitz. Akad. Wissensch. Wien, Math.—Nat. Cl., 
vol. 102, 1893, p. 882. 

Microbembex monodonta Fox, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1895, p. 363. 

Microbembex monodonta (and varieties) JoHNsOoN and RoHwer, Ent. News, 
vol. 19, 1908, p. 374. 


Male.—Black: Labrum in part or entirely, apical border of clypeus 
or entire clypeus, tubercles, narrow line on posterior border of prono- 
tum, spot on tegulae, lateral line above base of wings on scutum 
variable in extent, sometimes pair of discal marks on scutum, lateral 
rectangular spots on scutellum variable in size, fascia on metanotum, 
curved fascia or pair of oblique lines on dorsum of median segment, 
sometimes postero-lateral angles of median segment, very fre- 


120 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


quently spot on mesopleurae, fasciae on tegites 1-6, first usually 
roundly emarginate on anterior middle, second, and third (some- 
times fourth) biemarginate on anterior border, frequently lateral 
spots on seventh, small lateral spots on second and third sternites, 
distal part of femora variable in extent, tibiae except spot below on 
first pair and sometimes on second, tarsi except ultimate segments, 
yellow. ' 

The color of the maculations varies from bright orange to pale 
greenish yellow and the variation in the extent of their development 
and in their combination on different individuals is such that the 
description given above may not apply with absolute accuracy to 
any single specimen. The clypeus is typically black, but it is fre- 
quently bordered with yellow and it may be wholly yellow. The 
labrum likewise may be entirely black or entirely yellow but it is 
more frequently black with apical yellow markings. The frons, 
scape, and flagellum are black. The variation in the maculations of 
the thorax and abdomen are as great as on the head. The wings 
may be heavily infumated in medial region or they may be hyaline 
and in the series before me all degrees of infumation may be found. 
The pubescence is short and white. On the frons and clypeus, 
especially on well preserved specimens, it gives a bright silvery 
reflection. It is shorter on the thorax and shows scarcely any sil- 
veriness. Segments 6-8 of the flagellum bear evident pits on the 
posterior surface; the ultimate segment is rounded apically and only 
very slightly curved. The second sternite bears a prominent, 
smooth, median, longitudinal process that terminates posteriorly in 
a short curved point. 

Female.—Black: Labrum wholly or in part, mandibles except 
apices, usually apical border of clypeus, rarely scape below, narrow 
posterior orbits, spot on tegulae, lateral lines on scutum, frequently 
pair of discal marks on same, lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on 
metanotum, curved fascia on dorsum of median segment, usually 
spot on postero-lateral angles of same, spot on mesopleurae variable 
in size, fasciae on tergites 1-5, first roundly emarginate at midline 
on anterior border, 2-5 biemarginate or bisinuate and usually with 
median notch on anterior border, sixth tergite apically or with apical 
lateral spots, lateral spots on sternites 2-3, femora distally, tibiae 
except line below, on first pair and sometimes on second, and tarsi 
varying in degree, pale-yellowish white or yellow. ‘The wings are dis- 
tinctly infumated on most specimens, but on some they are almost 
hyaline. The pubescence on the clypeus and frons is short and 
dense and gives a silvery reflection; on the vertex it is somewhat 
longer; on the thorax and abdomen it is short and not conspicuously 
silvery. 

Length.—8-14 mm 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 121 


As in the case of the male, the variation in the maculations is 
great. The labrum is usually bordered with yellow but it may be 
wholly yellow, or, in rare cases, it may be entirely black. This is like- 
wise true for the clypeus. The mandibles also may be entirely black. 
In the case of some western specimens the scape is yellow below. 
The scutum frequently bears a pair of prominent discal marks, but 
the increase or decrease of yellow on the scutum or sides of thorax 
does not appear to bear any definite relation to the increase or 
decrease of yellow on other parts of the body. The markings on the 
females from the eastern part of the United States are for the most 
part pale-yellowish white, whereas those on the females from the 
western part are more commonly bright yellow, but yellow forms are 
found in the East and light ones occur in the West. 

Although it is quite possible that, in the large number of speci- 
mens before me, collected from such widely separated localities, there 
may be included distinct varieties or even more than one species, 
nevertheless I am not able at this time to find characters on which 
I can make a satisfactory separation. 

Hathitat.—Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, District of 
Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Massa- 
chusetts, Connecticut, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, 
Kansas, Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, California, 
and Washington. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 197; females, 157. 


MICROBEMBEX AURATA, new species. 
Figs. 218, 221, 222. 


Male.—Black: Mandibles except apices, labrum, clypeus, scape 
except spot above, narrow shortened anterior orbits, narrow broken 
posterior orbits, prothorax almost entirely, tegulae, broad lateral 
lines on scutum, pair of large diamond-shaped discal marks on same, 
pair of large lateral spots on scutellum, metanotum, broad curved 
fascia on dorsum of median segment, lateral angles and sides of same, 
small spot on metapleurae, mesopleurae almost entirely, tergites 
except a very narrow black basal border and on first tergite a mid- 
dorsal black spot, sternites except a more or less extensive black basal 
border, and legs except anterior basal parts of femora, bright yellow. 
Segments 6-8 of the flagellum bear prominent pits on the posterior 
surface, and the ultimate segment is truncate apically and is dis- 
tinctly curved. The wings are hyaline. The pubescence on the 
frons and vertex is tolerably long and dense but is not conspicuously 
silvery. On the thorax and abdomen the pubescence is short and 
not conspicuous except on the sides and ventral surface of the ulti- 
mate abdominal segment, where it is more evident. The process on 
the second sternite is large, curved, obliquely directed backward and 


199 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL, 52. 


pointed. The genital stipites are distinct in shape, yellow in color, 
hirsute and weakly chitinized. 

Female.—The shade of color and the character of the maculations 
on the female are almost the same as those on the male. As is usual 
in the case of these wasps the maculations on the female are better 
developed than on the male; the orbits are more extensive and the 
black on the legs and abdomen reduced. The pubescence is similar 
to that on the male with the silveriness on the frons more evident. 
The sides of the apical emargination of the ultimate tergite are pro- 
duced into short but evident spines. As in the case of the male the 
ultimate segment of the flagellum is truncate apically and slightly 
curved. 

Length.—12-14 mm. 

The black mark on the mid-dorsal area of the first tergite of the 
type is replaced on the allotype by an anterior emargination; on the 
paratypes this mark is obscure or wanting. On one paratype the 
first two flagellar segments are yellow below and on two others the 
lateral spots on the scutellum are united on the midline. 

Habitat.—California, Arizona. 

Number of specimens examined—Males, 3; females, 3. 

Type and allotype.—Cat. No. 19672, U.S.N.M. Paratypes in the 
collection of the University of Kansas. 


MICROBEMBEX HIRSUTA, new species. 


Figs. 220, 223, 224. 


Male.—Black: Tubercles and narrow line on posterior border of 
pronotum joining them, tegulae, lateral lines on scutum, pair of discal 
marks on same, pair of large lateral spots on scutellum, metanotum, 
curved fascia on dorsum of median segment, postero-lateral angles 
of same, very small spot on mesopleurae, tergites 1-7 almost entirely 
triangular lateral marks on sternites 2-5, distal part of femora, tibiae 
more or less especially on posterior pair, basal part of metatarsi of 
second and third pair of legs, greenish yellow. 'The wings are hyaline. 
The pits on segments 6-8 of the flagellum are lacking. The process 
on the second sternite is characteristic of this species; it is short, 
blunt, not backwardly prolonged and is hirsute. The genital stipites 
are also very hirsute and are distinct in form from those of monodonta. 

Female.—Black: Labrum except apex, mandibles except apices, 
clypeus except a pair of black basal spots, scape below, short anterior 
orbits, narrow posterior orbits, tubercles joined by a narrow band 
across the posterior border of pronotum, tegulae, lateral lines on 
scutum, large lateral spots on scutellum, fascia on metanotum, 
curved fascia on dorsum of medain segment, broad fasciae on tergites 
1-5, first very slightly sinuate on anterior middle, remainder slightly 
bisinuate on anterior border and with a slight median notch, sixth 


no. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 123 


with lateral apical spots, small lateral spots on sternites 2-4, femora, 
distally, tibiae except spot on first and second pair below, and tarsi 
in varying degree, white or pale-yellowish white. The wings are 
hyaline. The frons, vertex, occiput, thorax and median segmentare 
clothed with unusually long, dense, white pubescence, especially 
conspicuous on the sides of the thorax and on the dorsum and postero- 
lateral angles of the median segment. 

Length.—9-13 mm. 

The pubescence on the male is not conspicuously different from that 
on mondonta except that the process on the second sternite is hirsute, 
but on the female it is so markedly different as to furnish a basis for 
distinguishing the two species. The maculations show but slight 
variations; the tarsi may be pale with only a brownish shade or they 
may be decidedly dusky, the distal segments always darker than the 
proximal ones; on the males the discal marks on the scutum are 
frequently lacking, the mesopleura is usually black, and the black 
basal border of the tergites varies in extent; on the female the clypeus 
may be wholly yellow or it may have the basal border black; the 
emarginations or sinuations of the anterior border of the tergal 
fasciae vary in extent but are never very prominent; on a great many 
of the females from Arizona the black color, especially on the abdo- 
men, is replaced by brown of varying degrees of intensity. Since 
the series shows all shades from light brown to black this lighter color 
is believed to show simply a teneral condition. 

Habitat.—Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. 

Number of specimens examined—-Males, 19; females, 33. 

Type, allotype, and paratype.—Cat. No. 19673, U.S.N.M. 


BIOLOGY. 


Much valuable work on the biology of various species of Bembicine 
wasps has been done, especially in Europe, but when we compare the 
number of species whose life history and habits have been investigated 
with the number of those about which we know practically nothing 
we wonder why these interesting insects have been so greatly neglected. 
With respect to the life-history and habits of species of Steniolia I 
have found in the literature consulted a single observation reported, 
that given by J.C. Bradley, in which he states that he found Stenioha 
duplicata Provancher in California sleeping in clusters on the stems of 
plants. Of the habits and activities of species of Stictiella I have 
found no report whatever. Among the species of this genus listed in 
this paper specimens of two (formosa and melanosterna) were found 
that had been collected while holding in their grasp adult forms of 
diurnal Lepidoptera. The biology of species of Stictia and Bicyrtes 
is better understood, but the greatest amount of attention and 
observation, both in Europe and in America, has been devoted to 
various species of the genus Bembiz. 


124 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


Handlirsch in his monograph gives an excellent summary of what 
had been discovered with regard to the biology of Bembix up to the 
time when his valuable work was brought out. According to this 
author the first report we have of observations upon the nesting 
habits of a species of Bembiz is that made by Linnaeus in 1745, in 
which he reports Bembix rostrata (Apis rostrata) flymg about over 
sandy soil and digging burrows therein, within which the larvae 
were to be found. What is probably the earliest record of observa- 
tions on the habits of a Bembicine wasp in this country is that reported 
by John Bartram in the year 1763 + in which he says: 

I saw several of these wasps flying about a heap of sandy loam: they settled on it, 
and very nimbly scratched away the sand with their fore feet, to find the nests, whilst 
they held a large fly under their wings with one of their other feet: they crept with it 
into the hole, that led to the nest, and staid there about three minutes, when they came 
out. With their hind feet they threw the sand so dextrously over the hole, as not 
to be discovered: then taking flight, soon returned with more flies, settled down, 
uncovered the hole, and entered with their prey. 

This extraordinary operation raised my curiosity to try to find the entrance, but the 
sand fell in so fast, that I was prevented, until by repeated essays I was so lucky as to 
find one. It was six inches in the ground, and at the farther end lay a large magot, 
near an inch long, thick as a small goose quill, with several flies near it, and the remains 
of many more. These flies are provided for the magot to feed on before it changes to 
the nymph state. Then iteatsno more untill it attains toa perfect wasp. * * * 

But this yellow wasp takes a different method, with great pains digging a hole in the 
ground, lays its egg, which soon turns to a magot, then catches flies to support it, 
untill it comes to maturity. 


In 1809 Latreille, in the Anneles du Museum d’histoire Naturelle, 
gives a report of his observations on two species of Bembiz, rostrata 
and integra (tarsata). In this article he reports the fact that these 
wasps feed their young upon flies, and gives a description of the bur- 
rows constructed for their nests and a detailed description of the larvae. 
He points out the fact that although these wasps nest in colonies, each 
wasp digs a nest for herself, using for this work the stout spines with 
which the front legs are provided. He states that when the wasp has 
provided sufficient flies for the nourishment of her young she deposits 
a single egg in each cell and closes it up. He reports that although 
rostrata uses adult flies to store her nest she does not prey upon a 
single species, but attacks several. He further states that copulation 
occurs on the wing. 

Lepeletier ? gives a very complete account of the nesting habits 
and mode of copulation of B. rostrata. In this account he points out 
the fact that flies taken by the wasp and stored are not killed but 
paralyzed. Hesays: 

Je lui enlevai sa proie, et la trouvai dans le méme état que celles saisies 4 l’entrée 
du nid: d’ou je conclus que cette pigdire met ses victimes dans une espéce de paralysie 


qui n’est mortelle qu’au bout d’un laps de temp assez considérable pour qu’elles soient 
dévorées vivant par la larve du Bembez. 


1 Philos. Trans. London, vol. 53, p. 37. 2 Hist. Nat., vol. 2, 1841. 


NO, 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 125 


Many other investigators have also contributed to the knowledge 
of the life and activities of Bembiz, and the names of those to whose 
works I have had access are given in the bibliography appended. 
Among these there are two, Fabre and Wessenberg-Lund, whose 
observations require further consideration here. Fabre maintains 
that the flies stored by Bembix are always dead when placed in the 
nest, and he suggests three possible explanations of this practice on 
the part of Bembiz: (1) Bembix does not know how to paralyze her 
prey; (2) the delicate character of the constitution of the fly is such 
that death is brought on instead of paralysis; or (3) the nervous sys- 
tem of the fly is not suited to paralysis. Fabre does not state posi- 
tively that the failure of Bembiz to paralyze her prey is due to one of 
these three causes, but he sees no other means of explaining the 
departure from a practice so universal among the digger wasps. 
Wessenberg-Lund maintains, as does Fabre, that the flies stored by 
Bembiz are killed and not paralyzed when captured; but he rejects 
Fabre’s suggestions as to the probable cause therefor and finds the 
reason in the structure of the wasp herself. He enters into a critical 
discussion of the form of the abdomen of various types of wasps and 
bees and compares the form of the abdomen of those that are known 
to paralyze their prey with that of those in which the sting is not 
used for that purpose. He finds that the stalked abdomen, such 
as is possessed by Sphez, is associated with the instinct to paralyze, 
and arrives at the conclusion that this form of abdomen is necessary 
for the performance of this function. Consequently his answer to 
the question, ‘‘Why does Bemhix not paralyze her prey?” is that she 
can not. Her abdomen is so formed as not to permit her to do so. 

Thus, both Fabre and Wessenberg-Lund maintain that Bembix 
rostrata does not paralyze her prey, but each explains this departure 
from what is the usual practice of digger wasps on different grounds. 
Fabre finds the cause in the character of the prey, Wessenberg-Lund 
in the structure of the wasp. If these investigators insist that this 
departure is true only for B. rostrata, as I believe they do, it is possible 
that they may be right. But if they maintain that this departure 
is true for all species of Bembiz they are wrong; for at least one species, 
Bembiz spinolae Lepeletier, both possesses this power and makes use 
of it as the following observations show. 

On June 13, 1914 I observed a female of Bembix spinolae enter her 
nest carrying a Chrysops fly. After some time, probably about five 
minutes, she emerged and was captured. I at once digged up the 
nest and found in the brood chamber a single fly, the one I had 
seen carried in. Upon the fly, which was lying on its back, was found 
the newly-laid egg placed in its characteristic position, attached by 
one end to the thorax at one side just posterior to the base of the 
wing. I carefully removed the fly and egg from the nest and placed 


126 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


them in a breeding cell in the basement of my home. The egg of 
the wasp did not hatch until on June 20, delayed, no doubt, by the 
low temperature of the room, and the larva died on June 21. On 
June 23 I removed the dead larva and pinned the fly. This fly 
was not dead at the time it was pinned and even after the pin had 
been thrust through the thorax it continued to move its antennae 
and its legs. In this case a fly paralyzed by B. spinolae lived for 
10 days and might have lived longer had I not killed it. As will be 
pointed out farther on the first fly brought to the nest by spinolae 
supports the egg of the wasp until it hatches, Furthermore, so far 
as my observations go, this fly is not consumed by the larval wasp. 
If this fly was dead at the time the egg is laid upon it, placed as it is 
in the warm moist earth, it would in all probability decompose before 
the egg would hatch and would prove a very unsatisfactory foundation 
for the support of the larval wasp. In no case where I have taken 
the fly from the nest within twenty-four hours after the egg was placed 
upon it has the fly failed to respond to stimulation. All were para- 
lyzed. Just how long they remain in this state in the burrow before 
death ensues I cannot say. Many of the flies brought in by spinolae 
for the developing larva are dead but by no means all of them. I 
frequently found in brood chambers, containing half grown larvae, 
flies that responded readily to stimulation. The Peckhams also 
report two instances in their observations on spinolae in which the 
fly brought in was not dead but paralyzed. 

With regard to the European species B. rostrata, which Fabre 
and Wessenberg-Lund had under observation, I, of course, have had 
no experience, and the fact that B. spinolae can and does make use 
of her power to paralyze is not a proof that B. rostrata does likewise. 
Lepeletier maintains, as pointed out above, that rostrata does paralyze 
her prey and it is possible that both Fabre and Wessenberg-Lund 
failed to carry the investigation far enough to discover the whole 
truth. Be the facts in the case of rostrata what they may, Wessen- 
berg-Lund’s conclusion that the form of the abdomen of Bembix 
inhibits the power to paralyze can not be accepted; for, in the case 
of one species of Bembix and of two species of Bicyrtes, in which 
genus the form of the abdomen is almost identical with that of 
Bembix, we know the prey is paralyzed. Furthermore, Hartman, in 
his Observations on the Habits of Some Solitary Wasps of Texas 
(page 30), reports an observation on Bembix texana Cresson, in 
which the wasp seized and stung a fly that he had caught and 
fastened down for the express purpose of observing this action on 
the part of the wasp, and the Peckhams in their observations on 
Bembix spinolae report that they twice observed this species in the 
act of stinging a fly. 


NO, 2173, A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 127 


During the summer of 1914 I spent a great part of my time observ- 
ing the nesting habits of three species of Bembicine wasps: Bembiz 
spinolae Lepeletier, Bicyrtes ventralis Say, and Microbembex monodonta 
Say. The nesting site was a pile of clean sand on a vacant lot in the 
city of Washington. The last of these three species I had observed 
with considerable care the previous summer at Cedar Point, Ohio, 
and what was observed in Washington simply corroborated the 
facts previously obtained. 


BEMBIX SPINOLAE Lepeletier. 


In constructing her nest Bembiz spinolae digs a sloping tunnel in 
the sand varying from 5 inches to 1 foot in length and, by enlarging 
the tunnel at the end, forms a brood chamber which is from 4 to 6 
inches below the surface of the ground. These nests are digged at 
all times of the day; some females are busy at this work early in 
the morning, others late in the afternoon. On dark, gloomy days 
these wasps are inactive; they love the sunshine and the hottest part 
of the day finds them most active. About an hour is required to 
construct a nest, but the condition of the sand and the individuality 
of the wasp are important factors in determining the time required. 
When the nest is complete the wasp closes the entrance carefully 
and then attacks the pile of sand thrown up in excavating the nest. 
This she scatters in all directions and continues to work over the 
surface until all evidence of the presence of the nest is completely 
obliterated, which usually requires about five minutes. When this 
has been done the wasp sets forth in search of prey. 

The length of time required to secure the first fly for the new nest 
varied from 2 to 10 minutes. On the first fly placed in the nest the 
egg is laid and the time spent in this operation varied from 5 to 12 
minutes. On emerging from the nest after depositing the egg the 
wasp shows renewed interest in the concealment of the entrance to 
her domicile. She spends as much time in effacing the evidence of 
the opening of the nest as she did in performing the same operation 
when the nest had just been completed. In this case she throws the 
sand from all directions toward the entrance to the nest, whereas in 
the previous operation she throws it away. B. spinolae stops up 
the burrow not only at the entrance but also at a short distance from 
the brood chamber. This I found true for every nest investigated. 
In the evening the female wasp usually returns and spends the night 
within the nest, but not in the brood chamber. In every case where 
I found a female within her nest she was found between the obstruc- 
tion at the entrance and the one near the brood chamber. 

The males of B. spinolae spend much of their time flying about over 
the nesting area seeking the females and quarreling among themselves. 
Copulation occurs on the wing. From time to time the males leave 


128 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


the nesting area to make excursions to the flowers in the vicinity in 
order to feed on the nectar and presumably also upon the pollen. 
The males also dig burrows in the sand, in which they spend the nights 
and the days too during unfavorable weather. These burrows are 
short and extend to the depth of only an inch or two below the sur- 
face. It is an interesting sight on a hot summer day when a sudden 
shower comes up to see these males hasten to the nesting area and 
bury themselves in the sand. 

There has been much speculation as to whether Bembiz rears more 
than one larva at a time and opinions on this point differ. So far as 
I am aware no positive evidence bearing on this matter has been pre- 
sented by other investigators and what I have obtained is not con- 
clusive. In a preceding paper on the nesting habits of B. nubilipennis 
Cresson, it was pointed out that this wasp forms a series of lateral 
branches from the main tunnel and in these rears her larvae, but the 
evidence obtained in that brief investigation tends to show that but 
a single larva is reared at a time. My investigations of the nesting 
habits of B. spinolae give evidence of the same character. On two 
occasions, when keeping under observation a wasp that was busy car- 
rying flies into her nest, she completed this task and sealed up the 
nest. The sealing of the nest differs from the ordinary mode of closing 
it, in that in the latter case only the entrance is closed, whereas in the 
former the tunnel from the brood chamber to the opening is solidly 
packed with sand. In each case noted the wasp after completing 
her task of sealing up the nest searched about for a few minutes, and 
without going out of my sight, began and completed a new nest within 
which as soon as complete a fly was placed, upon which an egg was 
deposited. 

No more flies are placed in the nest until the larva emerges from 
the egg, which usually occurs at the expiration of one or two days 
after its deposition. The young larva does not leave the egg, but 
moves upward to the open end of the eggshell to which its posterior 
end remains attached. From this vantage point it can reach with 
its head to considerable distance on all sides. In no case observed 
did the larval wasp devour the fly on which the egg was placed. To 
do so would deprive the young larva of the advantage it enjoys in the 
position it occupies—a position that appears to be essential to its 
feeding upon the food provided by the mother wasp at this time. In 
no case did I succeed in rearing in my breeding cells a larva that was 
accidentally detached when small from the fly on which the egg was 
placed. Itis my conviction that the flies on which the young larva 
first feeds are crushed or macerated for it by the mother wasp. Inno 
case did I find a newly-hatched larva in my breeding cells able to feed 
upon house-flies that were given to it intact and a number of such 
larvae died for me before I discovered this. By crushing the flies 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 129 


(EN 1 0A oO NI SL 2 ANA I Main RMB inate ICE 
thereafter so as to permit the larva to reach the internal organs it 
fed freely and after a day or two it had no difficulty in feeding upon 
flies that were given intact. 

The larva feeds voraciously, grows rapidly, and the mother wasp 
is kept busy bringing in food for her hungry offspring. In my breed- 
ing experiments the shortest period within which the larva passed 
from hatching to the formation of its cocoon—that is, the time during 
which feeding occurred—was four days. From my observations in 
the field I am inclined to think that the time of feeding in the larval 
stage, provided weather conditions do not prevent the mother from 
keeping on hand a plentiful supply of food, is on the average about 
six or seven days. Although I can not state the exact number of 
flies consumed by any one larva of this species, I should estimate the 
number of house-flies required to mature the larva to be at least 50. 
In my breeding experiments I made a practice of supplying more 
flies than the larva could consume in a day and then on each morning 
supplying fresh flies after removing from the cell all partly eaten and — 
untouched flies therem. Consequently the exact number was not 
determined. 

The wasp carries her prey ventral side up beneath her body tightly 
clasped with her middle legs. She retains her hold upon her prey 
while opening the nest, resting on the posterior pair of feet while she 
digs open the entrance with her front pair. Wessenberg-Lund states 
that rostrata lays her fly aside while opening the nest, pausing in her 
work from time to time to make sure the fly is safe. I never saw 
spinolae lay aside her fly when opening her nest save in cases when 
the sand had been disturbed so as to make it difficult for her to find 
the entrance to thenest. In such cases the fly was discarded entirely 
and left lying on thesand. The Peckhams say of spinolae that ‘‘some- 
times she drops the fly behind her and then, turning around, pulls it 
in with her mandibles.” In my observations I have never seen spi- 
nolae take a fly into the nest in any way other than the usual fashion. 
Melander in his article on Bembix (see bibliography) makes the fol- 
lowing statements: 

When the nest is of the requisite depth the wasp carefully covers it with loosened 
soil, concealing the opening. She then departs to sting a fly whereon to deposit her 
egg. The fly is carried to the nest and left at the door while the wasp digs through. 
She then descends to the bottom of the nest and returning to the doorway for the fly 
brings it dewn as food for her young one. 

It is not possible to say with certainty to which species of Bembiz 
these statements refer, but the fact that one of the illustrations in 
the article is labeled,‘‘ Adult of Bembex spinolae, enlarged five times,” 
would seem to show that the article was written with this species in 
mind. Since two other species quite similar to spinolae are known 
to occur in northwestern United States, primaaestate and comata, it 

65008 °—Proc.N.M.vol.52—17——9 


130 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VOL. 52. 


is quite possible that the above observations may refer to one of 
these. 

On leaving the nest the entrance is invariably closed. The 
rapidity with which the wasp secures flies is shown by the following 
record of intervals between visits to the nest on each of which a fly 
was brought in. With wasp No. 29 observations began with the 
visit at 11.18 a. m., and closed with the visit at 12.30 p.m. The 
successive intervals between visits were 5, 4, 12, 14, 54, 114, 34, 114, 
and 5 minutes. In the case of No. 37 the intervals, beginning at 9.32 
a.m. and closing at 11.02 a. m., were as follows: 5, 4, 6,3, 5,6, 14, 18, 5, 
and 24 minutes. These two cases may be taken as fairly representing 
the energy with which the wasp goes about her task. In each of 
these nests the larva was nearing maturity. 

As soon as the larva ceases feeding it encases itself in a cell or 
cocoon composed of grains of sand entangled in meshes of silk and 
firmly cemented together by a hard, tough substance probably fur- 
nished from glands in the mouth. When it begins to form its cocoon 
the larva spins a loose felt-work of silk about it as a foundation for 
the formation of the cocoon proper. In one case this silken felt-work 
was attached to the under surface of the glass covering the breeding 
cell, so that the cocoon formed within it was held above the sand in 
the cell and was firmly cemented to the underside of the glass. 
Although this larva was not surrounded on all sides by sand, as is the 
case when the cocoon is formed in the nest, nevertheless, by some 
means that were not observed, it succeeded in incorporating grains 
of sand in the wall of the cocoon. 

Two cases coming under my observation throw new light upon 
the life-history of B. spinolae. In the first (No. 37) the nest was 
constructed and the egg deposited late in the afternoon of June 27, 
the nest was marked and kept under observation until July 3, when 
the mother wasp was captured and the nest digged up. The larva 
therein was nearly full grown. I placed it in a breeding cell together 
with the flies found in the brood chamber with it. On July 4 I gave 
it an additional supply of house-flies and on the morning of July 5 
it had begun the formation of its cocoon. The larva was covered at 
once with sand and the cocoon was complete on July 6. This cell 
with its contents was then set aside and not inspected again until 
August 24, when to my surprise I found the adult wasp had emerged 
and unable to escape had perished in the cell. The date of its emer- 
gence is not definitely known. In the second case (No. 48) the egg 
was laid July 10 and hatched on July 12. The larva began forming 
its cocoon on the afternoon of July 17 and completed it on July 18. 
It was this wasp that formed its cocoon without being covered with 
sand. This cell was also set aside, but after the discovery related 
above it was closely watched and the adult wasp emerged on Septem- 
ber 2. Thus this wasp completed its transformations from egg to 


no.2178. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 131 


adult between July 10 and September 2—a period of 54 days. In 
both cases the emerging wasps were females. It follows from this 
that in this locality Bembix spinolae has more than a single brood each 
year. I may add here that the wasps were still active in the field 
after September 2. 

The prey of spinolae, as in the case of other species of Bembiz, con- 
sists of flies. The species found in greatest numbers in the nests 
opened in the course of my investigations was the common house- 
fly, due perhaps to the fact that the nesting site was located in a 
suburb in the city where this fly could be most easily obtained. 
Some individuals, however, showed a preference for other species, 
and not a single nest was found in which the flies were all of one spe- 
cies. Below are given the contents of three different nests, each of 
which contained a larva that I judged to be four or five days old. 
The flies found in these nests were kindly determined for me by 
Mr. W. R. Walton. 


First nest. 


2 Winthemia 4-pustulata Fabricius. 

10 Pseudopyrellia cornucinia Fabricius. 
1 Musca domestica Linnaeus. 

2 Sarcophaga, species ? 


Second nest. 


1 Chrysops pudicus Osten Sacken. 
1 Chrysops niger Macquart. 

2 Tabanus coffecatus Macquart. 
16 Odontomyia virgo Wied. 


Third nest. 
1 Chrysops lugeus Wied. 
2 Chrysops pudicus Osten Sacken. 
1 Tabanus pumilus Macquart. 
1 Tabanus lasiopthalmus Macquart. 
13 Odontomyia virgo Wied. 


BEMBIX BELFRAGEI Cresson. 


All investigators that have observed the habits of species of 
Bembiz report that these wasps provision their nests exclusively with 
dipterous insects. I know of but one exception to this: Hartman 
in Observations on the Habits of Some Solitary Wasps of Texas, 
page 32, reports Bembix belfragei Cresson as provisioning her nest 
with a large species of bug, a hemipterous insect. He informs me 
that the specimens on which this observation was based can not now 
be located. I am strongly of the opinion that identification in this 
case has been incorrect; that the species reported upon has been a 
member of the genus Bicyrtes. This is, however, only a matter of 
opinion based on a limited experience with species of the two genera. 
If B. belfraget does provision her nest with hemipterous insects she 
forms a marked exception among the species of Bembix thus far 


132 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. vou, 52. 


investigated. Prof. J.S. Hine, in circular No. 6 of the State Crop 
Pest Commission of Louisiana, page 27, makes a short report of his 
observations on a species of Bembix that was determined for him as 
B. belfragei. Ihave examined his collection and the specimens bear- 
ing the label B. belfraget is not that species at all but belong to my 
new species B. hinet. 


STICTIA CAROLINA Fabricius. 


In the same paper (pp. 20-27) Prof. Hine gives a detailed account 
of the nesting habits of Stictia carolina Fabricius (Monedula carolina 
Drury), the activities of the wasps, the character of the nest and its 
construction, a description of the larva, its size and mode of feeding, 
the cocoon and the character and quantity of food consumed. 
According to his observations these wasps prefer to feed their young 
on adult horse-flies, although they do not confine themselves exclu- 
sively to these flies. Hartman also has investigated the nesting 
habits of this species and in the paper cited above states that 
Stictia carolina deposits her egg in the empty nest and does not 
provide food until the egg has hatched. In this respect this species 
resembles Microbembex instead of Bembiz. In other respects the 
reports show that its breeding habits are quite similar to those of 
Bembiz. 

BICYRTES VENTRALIS Say. 


The species of Bicyrtes, so far as my own observations have gone 
and so far as is shown by the reports of other investigators, always 
use hemipterous insects, usually nymphs of the so-called stink-bugs, 
with which to provision their nests. These insects are paralyzed and 
in my breeding cells many remained alive for over a week. The nest 
of B. ventralis Say is made in the sand in situations similar to that 
chosen by Bembiz spinolae, in fact, I have found them nesting side by 
side in the same sandy area. The nest of Bicyrtes is not so deep as 
that of Bembiz and is kept closed only at the entrance. When the 
nest is constructed and closed Bicyrtes goes at once in search of prey. 
When this is secured she returns to the nest carrying her booty in the 
same fashion as Bembiz and in the same fashion retains her hold upon 
it while opening the nest. The bugs are placed upon their backs in 
the brood chamber and the egg is deposited upon the first one 
brought in. 

Unlike Bembiz, Bicyrtes does not wait for the egg to hatch before 
bringing in more food, but proceeds at once to complete the pro- 
visioning of her nest, which is usually finished and the nest sealed 
before the egg has hatched. Usually each nest has but a single brood 
chamber, but in the course of my investigations I found two each of 
which had two brood chambers reached from the same entrance. In 
each case, however, the first chamber was provisioned and sealed before 


NO. 2178. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 133 


the second was constructed. If unfavorable weather interferes with 
the work of the wasp before the nest is completely provisioned, she 
will return to it later and complete the store of food necessary to 
develop her offspring. Under such circumstances I have observed 
Bicyrtes ventralis carrying bugs into a nest that contained a half- 
grown larva. On one occasion, after a few days of adverse weather 
and while the sand was yet wet, I observed a female ventralis open 
and enter a nest but without carrying in a bug. After a few minutes 
spent inside she emerged and sealed up the nest. I at once digged 
up the nest and found within it a half-grown larva, several untouched 
bugs, and the remains of several more that had been devoured. I 
placed the contents of the nest in a breeding cell and in due time the 
larva completed its growth and spun its cocoon. Here it would 
seem that the mother wasp, after an absence of two or three days 
caused by rainy weather, visited the nest for the purpose of ascer- 
taining whether the larva had been sufficiently provided for. The 
fact that she sealed up the nest after the inspection indicates that she 
found conditions satisfactory and my subsequent investigation 
proved the correctness of her good judgment. 

On June 13 I marked a nest in which the wasp was busily storing 
bugs. I digged this nest up on June 20 and found the larva safely 
inclosed in its cocoon. It had passed from egg to mature larva 
within a week. On June 23 a wasp was observed storing her nest. 
While under observation she completed the provisioning of this 
brood chamber and sealed it up. She at once constructed a second 
brood chamber leading off from the same entrance as the first. She 
placed a few bugs in this, but night came on before the work was 
complete. She resumed her task on the morning of June 24, com- 
pleted provisioning the nest and then sealed it. 1 then marked the 
nest, but it was not again visited by the wasp. On June 26 I digged 
up the nest and placed the contents of the two brood chambers in 
separate breeding cells. The larva from the brood chamber that 
was first constructed completed its feeding and began forming its 
cocoon on June 28; the one from the second chamber, on June 30. 
The results of further investigations show that the egg usually 
hatches from forty-eight to seventy-two hours after being deposited. 
As in the case of Bembiz the larva moves up to the top of the empty 
eggshell and remaining with its posterior end attached thereto makes 
use of this vantage point to reach for food in all directions. The 
number of bugs placed in a brood chamber varied from 3 to 11. In 
cases where the number of bugs was large the individuals were 
smaller than where the bugs were less numerous. The larva com- 
pletes its feeding in from three to five days, so that the time from 
newly-laid egg to encased larva is approximately one week. 


134 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. you. 52. 


BICYRTES QUADRIFASCIATA Say. 


In the course of my investigations I discovered two nests of 
Bicyrtes quadrifasciata—one at Sandusky, Ohio, and the other at 
Great Falls, Maryland. In both instances my attention was drawn 
to the insect by the loud, humming noise she makes as she approaches 
her nest with her victim. Unlike ventralis, which species flies hither 
and thither over the nesting area in search of her burrow, quadri- 
fasciata, when she arrives in the vicinity of her nest, poises in the air 
several feet above the ground and, while making the humming noise 
referred to, slowly and steadily descends directly to the entrance to 
the burrow. The nest at Sandusky contained two bugs, nymphs of 
a species of Nerarra, of which both were paralyzed, and upon one, 
evidently the first brought in, the egg was placed in the same fashion 
as that noted for ventralis. At Great Falls the wasp was taken at 
the entrance to her nest as she was about to enter with her first 
victim. 

BICYRTES, species? 

Hartman, in his paper cited above, reports upon two species of 
Bicyrtes that were identified for him as Bembidula parata Provancher 
and Bembidula yictifrons Smith. I am strongly of the opinion that 
we have here another case of misidentification. Bicyrtes (Bembidula) 
parata Provancher was described from California and I have not 
seen a single specimen of this species from Texas. I suspect that 
the observations reported by Hartman for parata refer either to 
capnoptera Handlirsch or to my new species, annulata. With regard 
to the second species, B. pictifrons Smith, no such species, so far as I 
am aware, was ever described. It is possible that the man who 
determined the specimen may have meant to write Monedula picti- 
frons Smith instead of Bembidula pictifrons, but the character of the 
observations indicates that the species in question belongs to the 
genus Bicyrtes. It is to be hoped that the specimens on which these 
determinations were based may yet be located and the identity of 
the species so carefully observed and reported upon may be posi- 
tively established. 

MICROBEMBEX MONODONTA Say. 


The data, on which is based the following discussion of the biology 
of Microbembex monodonta Say, were obtained between June 17 and 
July 25, 1913, at the Lake Laboratory of the Ohio State University 
located at Cedar Poimt, Sandusky, Ohio. This strip of land is a 
great sand-bar more or less sparsely covered with vegetation. In 
the immediate vicinity of the Lake Laboratory the surface is very 
irregular, due to the shifting of the sand by the wind, and on the 
bottoms and sides of these “‘blow-outs,’”’ where vegetation is exceed- 
ingly scarce, these wasps nest in countless numbers. They prefer 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 135 


the open spaces entirely free from vegetation, but their burrows may 
be found almost anywhere among the clumps of grass and even under 
the trees wherever the sand is free from leaves or not hidden by 
foliage. Although a high wind, when the sand is dry or a violent 
rain-storm, invariably alters in no small measure the surface of the 
naked sand, nevertheless such changes in no way discourage these 
energetic little insects or even seriously interfere with their prosperity. 

On June 17 the wasps were found in great numbers flitting about 
over the sand and many were already at work on the construction 
of nests. The great majority, however, at this time were males, 
from which fact it seems that the males emerge somewhat earlier 
than the females. A number of pupae were digged out of the sand 
and the insects permitted to emerge in the laboratory. In all 10 
insects were secured in this way and all were females. In searching 
the sands from day to day many emerging wasps were digged out, 
but only a very few of these were males, and my records show that 
not a single male was thus discovered after the 1st day of July. 

Mating occurs immediately after the female has emerged. The 
fact that the male emerges in advance of the female appears to be a 
provision of nature to insure the fertilization of all females. The 
males are constantly searching the sands for the emerging females, 
and a female is not long above ground before she is discovered by a 
passing male and fertilized. The female is usually found and seized 
by a male before she has made any attempt to fly, and a fierce but 
brief struggle precedes copulation, the pair rolling about on the sand 
or in some instances rising into the air. Copulation requires but a 
brief time, about half a minute, and the male seems capable of fer- 
tilizing a number of females. All data secured tends to show that 
copulation occurs but once. While the females are digging their 
burrows and searching the sands for food for their young they are 
continually pestered by the roaming males, every one of which in 
passing a busy female either hovers about her for an instant or 
pounces upon her back. In the majority of such cases the male 
retains hishold but momentarily, apparently realizing very quickly that 
he has made a mistake; in others a struggle ensues upon the sand and 
occasionally the male will retain his position on the back of the female 
for some time, but in all of these cases, and hundreds were observed, 
not a single mating was effected. At the close of the period of 
investigation very few males were in evidence and the females in 
great numbers were digging their burrows in peace. 

The nest is a simple unbranched tube and a single larva is reared 
in each. The young is reared at the extreme end of the burrow, 
which is enlarged somewhat to form a brood chamber. These bur- 
rows are from 8 inches to 1 foot in length from end to end and the 
brood chamber is from 3 to 6 inches below the surface of the sand. 


136 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. von. 52. 


The variation in the length and depth of the burrow depends a great 
deal upon its location. If it is constructed on a level spot the brood 
chamber, as a rule, is not so far below the surface as it is when the 
burrow is placed on a sloping site, and the wind by shifting the sand 
may alter its depth, no matter where placed. In no case did I find a 
burrow branched or with more than a single young within it. 

The wasp digs with great rapidity, but the length of time required 
to complete a burrow varies with the condition of the sand and the 
abundance and activity of the males. After a rain the sand is wet 
and heavy and the work is laborious, and when the sand is quite dry 
and loose it slides down into the entrance as fast as the wasp digs it 
out. In fact, if the sand is very dry and loose the wasps can not con- 
struct their burrows at all, and I have seen them work for half a day 
without being able to get out of sight in the sand, whereas when the 
sand is in good condition—i. e., shortly after a rain—a burrow can be 
completed in the course of two or three hours or even less. 

Occasionally we find two and even three females contending for the 
same burrow, and it is interesting to watch the struggle that ensues. 
When the contestants are of the same size the argument becomes 
decidedly strenuous. They push and shove and crowd each other 
about the entrance to the burrow. One will gain the entrance only 
to be seized by the wing or hind leg and dragged out by the other, 
which, on gaining the entrance, is subjected to the same treatment 
by her rival. Frequently as one of them seeks to enter the burrow 
the other will pounce upon her back, seize her, and rising on the wing 
carry her to a short distance and drop her without ceremony upon the 
sand. These struggles sometimes last for hours with no decided 
advantage to either and apparently no harm sustained by either. 
The explanation of these contests apparently lies in the fact that, 
owing to the great number nesting in the same area, two or more 
burrows are constructed with their entrances quite close together, so 
that one wasp in opening her burrow disturbs the entrance to the nest 
of a neighbor, and if this neighbor is desirous of inspecting her nest 
at the same time a fight ensues. 

When the burrow has been completed a single egg is placed in the 
brood chamber at the extreme end. This is firmly fastened in an 
upright position in the sand of the floor of the brood chamber. The 
egg is white, cylindrical, and rounded at the ends. The eggs hatch 
in from two to three days, and the larvae at first remain with the 
posterior part of the body still attached within the egg shell, for the 
egg is always placed so that the head of the developing larva is upper- 
most, and it waves its anterior part about in search of food. No food, 
however, is placed in the burrow until the egg has hatched. In this 
respect Microbembex monodonta resembles S. carolina as reported by 
Hartman. Microbembex monodonta feeds its young on dead insects, 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 137 


which it gathers up from the surface of the sands, instead of capturing 
and paralyzing living insects by stinging, as do other wasps of similar 
habits. The food is consequently exceedingly variable, but May-flies 
and midges were most used, probably because of their abundance on 
the sands and the consequent ease with which they could be secured. 

When the wasp is storing her nest with food it is possible to induce 
her to take into it insects placed at the entrance while she is inside. 
In this manner I repeatedly succeeded in having newly-killed May- 
flies, midges, house-flies, and stable-flies taken into the nest. If a 
May-fly was disabled but still possessed of life enough to move its legs 
or wings the wasp invariably appeared afraid of it and refused to touch 
it when it was placed at the mouth of her burrow. I did not observe 
a single case in which a wasp attacked and carried off a living unin- 
jured insect, but they did attack and carry off house-flies, stable-flies, 
and even May-flies that I cast upon the sand after having disabled 
them to such an extent that they could not fly. In seizing such an 
insect the wasp appears to sting it, but of this I can not speak with 
certainty. When one of these insects was seized the wasp invariably 
bent her abdomen forward, bringing the tip into contact with her 
victim, thus going through the performances that would be incidental 
to stinging; but this same performance may sometimes be seen when 
the wasp seizes a dead and dried insect lying on the sand. I am of 
the opinion, however, that the instinct to sting still remains, and that 
whether the prey be a disabled or a dead insect the wasp uses her sting 
upon it. 

One of the most interesting questions met in this investigation is 
““How do these wasps find the entrance to their burrows?” The 
results of my observations force me to conclude that they do so 
through the sense of smell or some power similar to smell. When the 
wasp has completed her burrow and deposited an egg therein she 
closes up the entrance by digging the sand into the mouth of the bur- 
row until it is filled. Not content with this she smooths the sand 
about the entrance and then beginning near it she proceeds outward 
first in one direction and then in another, throwing the sand behind 
her and scattering it loosely over the spot where the mouth of the 
burrow is concealed. When she has finished there is absolutely not 
a trace of the burrow to be seen. Nevertheless when the wasp returns 
two or three days later she is able after searching about over the sand 
for a little while to dig down directly into the mouth of the burrow as 
readily as if before filling it up she had inserted a stake into it to guide 
her in opening it again. She can do this no matter how greatly the 
appearance of the surface has been changed by wind, rain, or the 
trampling of animals since the time when she so carefully concealed 
the entrance. I repeatedly altered the appearance of the sand about 
the entrance to the nest between the visits of the wasp while she was 
busied in bringing in food, but I never succeeded in confusing her, 


138 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


though I dashed buckets of water over the surface, placed a small 
pile of sand over the entrance, or changed the surroundings by placing 
paper, leaves, and rubbish about the entrance to the nest. 

The following is an extreme case: I had been sitting on the sand for 
almost an hour observing a number of wasps on a day when the stable- 
fly was causing me great annoyance by biting my ankles, and as a 
result the sand about my feet had been trampled and disturbed. 
While fighting the flies I observed a wasp searching about my shoe, 
which at the time rested flat upon the sand. She flew round and 
round my foot, lighting first at one point and then at another, evi- 
dently trying to find a means of getting beneath it. I moved my 
foot aside and the wasp after searching the area covered by my shoe 
began to dig at a point that had been directly beneathit. She digged 
down directly into her burrow. Presently she came out, closed the 
burrow and set forth in search of food. Here it does not seem possible 
that the sense of sight or the relation of surrounding objects could 
have been of any possible use in locating the entrance to the burrow, 
for my trampling had changed everything within 2 feet of the nest, 
and my foot was directly over the entrance at the time she began her 
search for her nest. 

As stated above, no food is placed in the brood chamber until the 
ege is hatched, and even then sufficient is not provided at one time 
for the development of the larva. It is thus necessary for the wasp 
to open and provision the nest on two or more days. My investiga- 
tions clearly established the fact that the nest is provisioned at least 
twice and possibly oftener. When the wasp brings food to the nest 
she holds it with her intermediate pair of legs tightly clasped beneath 
her and while resting upon her hind legs she digs open the nest with 
her front pair. This is neither the easiest nor the quickest way of 
accomplishing the work of opening the nest, but itis much the safest. 
If she releases her hold upon her booty it is almost sure to be carried 
off by another wasp in search of food for her young. Sometimes the 
dead insect is so large that the wasp is compelled to lay it aside while 
opening the nest, but this is never done until by trial the wasp finds 
she can not open the nest while retaining her burden. It is under 
such conditions that she is most likely to be robbed of her property. 
She is, however, just as likely to be assailed while holding it but with 
less danger of losing it. The struggles at the mouth of the burrow 
for the possession of a dead insect are frequent and furious, the con- 
testants grappling and rolling over and over on the sand. Frequently 
it happens that the prey is dropped in the struggle and while the pair 
of contestants are rolling on the sand a third wasp comes along and 
settles the quarrel by quietly carrying off the coveted treasure. This 
fighting over food is not limited to struggles for possession at the 
entrance to a nest, but may occur at any time when two wasps may 
chance upon a dead insect on the sand at the same time, or when one 


no. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 139 


in possession of a dead insect is met by one empty-handed. I have 
frequently seen two wasps fight fiercely for the possession of a dead 
insect that the victor, after gaining possession of it, discarded as not 
worth carrying off. 

When leaving her nest the wasp invariably closes the opening, but 
no very careful attempt is made to conceal the point of entrance save 
when the visits for that day are complete. This species is preyed 
upon by a number of parasites and this precaution of closing the nest 
is doubtless to safeguard the nest against these enemies. They do 
not, however, make any effort to close the entrance while within the 
nest—a precaution that is practiced by both B. spinolae and B. nubil- 
ipennis. 

During the six weeks within which these observations in the field 
were recorded efforts were being made to rear the larval wasps, but 
the final results were far from satisfactory. At first I took small bot- 
tles filled with moist sand in which artificial cells were made wherein 
eggs and larvae of different ages were placed. These were put in a 
box and kept in the laboratory. While this work was in progress the 
weather was very hot and every attempt ended in failure, the larvae 
invariably dying before reaching maturity. This method was aban- 
doned and a box filled two-thirds full of sand and provided with a 
removable top was sunk in the sand so that the top was 4 inches below 
the surface. In the sand within the box little pits were made and 
stocked with eggs and larvae of various stages. The cover was placed 
on the box and the whole apparatus covered to a depth of about 4 
inches with sand. All went weil for three days; conditions were 
apparently as nearly normal as need be, but the third day a colony of 
little red ants found my box and destroyed every vestige of my larval 
wasps. The box was moved to what was deemed a safe place and 
restocked. Things flourished for three days, when ants again found 
the box and left not a trace of the wasps. I next secured shell vials 
25 by 80 mm. which I partially filled with sand in which pits were 
made for the reception of the eggs and larvae. A single egg or lava 
was placed in each vial and a cork was loosely inserted to keep out the 
ants and the vials were placed in the sunken box. This plan worked 
quite well and I succeeded in rearing to maturity several larvae taken 
at various stages of development and also in carrying two larval 
wasps through from the egg to maturity and encasement. 

On July 17 a number of nests in process of construction were 
marked and at 5 p. m. of the same day all these nests were completed 
and closed, save one, which had been abandoned. On the morning 
of the 18th three of these marked nests were opened before the wasps 
were astir and each contained an egg in its characteristic position. 
These were placed in the breeding box. One was destroyed by mi- 
nute worms, a second was accidentally crushed by a fall of the vial, 
but the third hatched. This egg was deposited on the afternoon of 


140 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. vou. 52. 


July 17; was still unhatched on the morning of the 19th, but was 
hatched on the morning of the 20th. It was fed daily on freshly 
killed May-flies, the remains of the supply of food given on one morn- 
ing being invariably removed before the fresh supply was given on the 
succeding day. It completed its growth and began its encasement on 
July 25. On the 21st another of these marked nests was opened anda 
larva apparently about 24 hours old was secured. It had been pro- 
vided with food, but whether on this date or on the 20th could not be 
determined. This larva was placed in the breeding box, and reared 
under conditions similar to the preceding. It likewise completed its 
growth on the 25th but failed to encase. On the 23d another of 
these marked nests was opened and a larva secured therefrom and 
placed in the breeding box. This one completed its development on 
the 26th but failed to encase—due to neglect on my part. In the 
case of the first two the time from the deposition of the egg to com- 
pletion of the feeding of the larva was eight days and in the third nine. 
It is quite probable that the time normally required by the wasp is 
somewhat greater than this since the character and quantity of food 
supplied to the larvae in the breeding case was much superior to that 
usually furnished by the mother wasp. 

When the period of feeding is complete the larva encases itself in 
an elongated egg-shaped cell or cocoon composed of grains of sand 
held together by threads of silk that are covered with some adhesive 
substance, probably furnished by glands in the mouth of the insect. 
My breeding experiments tend to show that the larvae can not encase 
unless they are buried in the sand. Many larvae brought to maturity 
in the vials simply spun a flat web of silk in their cells, and perished 
without forming cocoons whereas others burrowed down into the 
sand in the vials and readily encased. Others failing to burrow into 
the sand were covered loosely with sand by filling up the vials. These 
readily formed their cocoons. 

The first encased larva found in the field was secured on June 28 
and it is not probable that many mature earlier than this date. Two 
weeks later encased larvae were very frequently found when burrows 
were opened. It is not easy to distinguish a newly constructed co- 
coon from one formed the year before without opening the cocoon. 
If the cocoons are very carefully removed the newly constructed 
ones invariably have adhering to them loose silk fibers resembling 
the web of a spider; these are never present on a cell a year old. 
The old cells are also somewhat darker, but this is not a reliable cri- 
terion. In no instance was a cell found in a brood chamber or among 
the remains of food. It appears that the larva when it ceases feeding 
either advances from the brood chamber a short distance into the 
tunnel where its narrower diameter permits the larva to reach the 
sand on all sides or, more rarely, makes its way into the sand from the 
side of the brood chamber. In all these instances where the cell was 


NO. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 141 


discovered before its situation had been disturbed and its relation to 
the burrow could be positively determined the cell was found in the 
tunnel of the burrow from one to three inches from the remains of the 
food left in the brood chamber. Whether the cells found in the sand 
at one side of the brood chamber (a circumstance that was observed 
several times) was formed there by the larva, or had been dislodged in 
the digging or was formed in another tunnel not associated with the 
brood chamber near it, are questions that I failed to settle to my own 
satisfaction. The fact that some of the larvae in my breeding vials 
burrowed for an inch or more into the sand shows that the larva can 
if it chooses make its way into the sand from the brood chamber with- 
out the aid of a tunnel. 

After encasing the insect remains in the larval form until the fol- 
lowing spring. Just when the change to the pupa state is made—that 
is, how long the pupa stage lasts—I have not determined, since all the 
cocoons secured from the sands after I took up my work on June 17, 
contained either the pupae of the wasp or larvae or pupae of para- 
sites. When the wasp is ready to emerge it cuts off a circular cap 
from the end of the cell and comes out. All cocoons from which the 
wasp had emerged were found densely filled with sand, evidently dig- 
ged back into them by the wasps at the time of emergence. 

No very careful attempt to determine the parasites that prey upon 
M. momodonta was made. The most common one is a species of 
Bombylid fly, Exoprosopa fascipennis Say, which was repeatedly 
taken in the act of ovipositing in the sand at the entrance to the 
burrows of the wasp and a pupa of which was taken from a cocoon 
of this species. Another parasite taken from a cocoon is a species of 
Mutillid wasp, Dasymubilla, species? In additon to these a num- 
ber of small parasitic flies, probably Tachinids, were always busy 
about the entrance to the burrows awaiting an opportunity to dash 
into the opening behind the wasp as she entered her nest and de- 
posited an egg upon the food she carried in for her young. The 
little red ants that interfered with my breeding operations also tun- 
nel through the sand and destroy the contents of every nest that 
they chance to find. 


EXPLANATION OF FIGURES. 


Figures 1 to 6, inclusive, were made from microscopic projections of balsam mounts 
of the wings. They are, therefore, exact in outline and proportions and since all 
were drawn on the same scale of magnification the relative sizes are shown. No other 
drawings were made from balsam mounts; they were made directly from the naked 
objects. In preparing the genital stipites the wasps were relaxed and the genitalia 
exserted and allowed to dry either attached to the abdomen of the wasp or more fre- 
quently detached and mounted on strips of paper placed on the pin. All figures 
- except those of the wings are camera lucida drawings made with a Bausch & Lomb 
microscope, using a 48 mm. objective and 10X ocular, except in the case of figure 80, 
where a 16 mm. objective and 5X ocular were used, and in the case of figures 218 to 
230, inclusive, where a 48 mm, objective and 15X ocular were employed. Wherever 


142 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. VoL. 52. 


possible two drawings of the genital stipites of each species were made, an outline 
drawing of the dorsal aspect of the pair of stipites and a more careful drawing of a 
single one of the same individual, the stipes being shifted so that the view falls ver- 
tically upon its broad expanse. Drawingsof a single stipes of a species are of the more 
careful kind. Ina few cases stipites of several individuals of one species are figured 
to show variation. 
BIBLIOGRAPHY. 
AsHMEAD, WiLtIAM A. 
The Habits of the Aculeate Hymenoptera. Psyche, 1894, p. 60. 
BARTRAM, JOHN. 
Observations made by Mr. John Bartram, at Pennsylvania, on the Yellow Wasp 
of that country. Philosophical Transactions, London, vol. 53, 1763, p. 37 
BRADLEY, J. CHESTER. 
A Case of Gregarious Sleeping Habits Among Aculeate Hymenoptera. Annas of 
American Entomological Society, vol. 1, 1908, p. 127. 
BuRMEISTER, HERMANN. 
Bembicidae Argentini, Boletin de la Academia Nacional de ciencias exactas exis- 
tente en La Universidad de Cordova, vol. 1, 1874, p. 129. 
CockERELL, T. A. D. 
Contribution to the Entomology of New Mexico, Davenport Acad. Nat. Sci., vol. 
7, 1898, p. 142. 
Notes on some Hymenoptera, Can. Ent., 1899, p. 255. 
Cresson, E. T. 
On the Hymenoptera of Cuba. Proc. Ent. Soc. Phila., vol. 4, 1865, p. 141. 
Notes on Cuban Hymenoptera. Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 1, 1869, p. 293. 
Report upon the collections of Hymenoptera made in portions of Nevada, Utah, 
Colorada, New Mexico, and Arizona during the years 1872-1874. 
Hymenoptera Texana. Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., vol. 4, 1873, p. 218. 
Synopsis of the Families and Genera of the Hymenoptera of America North of 
Mexico. Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., Supplement, 1887. 
DauizBom, A. G. 
Hymenoptera Europea Praecipue Borealia, vol. 1, 1845, p. 486. 
Fasre, J. H. 
Etude sur l’instinct et les metamorphoses des sphegiens. Annales des Sciences 
Naturelles, vol. 6, 1856, p. 137. 
Notes sur quelque points de I’histoire des Cerceris, des Bembex, etc. Amnnalesdes 
Sciences Naturelles, vol. 6, 1856, p. 183. 
Fasricius, J. CHR. 
Systema Entomologiae, etc. Flensburgi et Lipsiae, 1775. 
Genera Insectorum, 1776 (or 1777). 
Mantissa Insectorum, etc. Hafniae, 1787. 
Entomologia Systematica amendata et uacta, Hafnia, 1792. 
Systema Piezatorum, Brunsvigiae, 1804. . 
Fox, William J. 
Report on Some Mexican Hymentoptera, Principally from Lower California. 
Proc. Cal. Acad. Sci. (2), vol. 4, 1893, p. 10. 
Synopsis of the Bembicini of Boreal North America. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. 
Phila., 1895, p. 351. 
Two New Bembicine Wasps. Journ. N. Y. Ent. Soc., vol. 9, 1901, p. 84. 
HaNpDLIRSCH, ANTON. 
Monographie der mit Nysson und Bembex Verwandten Grabwespen, vols. 4, 1889; 
5, 1890; 7, 1893. 
HARTMAN, CARL. 
Observations on the Habits of Some Solitary Wasps of Texas. Bulletin of the 
University of Texas, No. 65, 1905. 


a 


% 


No. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. : 1438 


Hine, James S. 

A Preliminary Report on the Horseflies of Louisiana, with a Discussion of Reme- 
dies and Natural Enemies. Circular No. 6 of the State Crop Pest Commission of 
Louisiana. 1906. 

Second Report upon the Horseflies of Louisiana. Bulletin No. 93 of the Louisiana 
Experiment Station. 1907. 

IuuicER, Karu. ae 

Magazin fur Insektenkunde, vol. 6, 1807, p. 195. 

Fauna Etrusca (Rossi), ed. 2, vol. 2, 1807, p. 131. 
JOHNSON and ROHWER. 

Colorado Bembicidae. Ent. News, vol. 19, p. 378. 
Kout, Franz F. 

Die Gattungen der Sphegiden. Annales der k. k. Naturalhistorischen Hofmu- 
seums. Wien, 1896. 

LATREILLE, P. A. 

Histoire naturelle générale et particuliére des insectes, vols. 3, 1800; 5, 1803; 13, 
1805. 

Considerations générales, etc. 1810. 

Le PELLETIER DE SAINT-FARGEAU, AMADEE. 
Histoire naturelle des Insectes Hymenopteres, vol. 3. Paris, 1845. 
MELANDER, A. L. 

How Does a Wasp Live? State College Bulletin, vol. 3, No. 6, Washington Agri- 

cultural College, 1904. 
Morice, F. D., and Durrant, J. H. 

The Authorship and first publication of the Jurinean Genera of Hymenoptera. 

Trans. Ent. Soc. London. Feb. 27,1915. p. 400. 
PacKARD, A. S. 

Revision of the Fossorial Hymenoptera of North America. Proc. Ent. Soc. 

Phila., vol. 6, 1867. p. 353. 
PARKER, J. B. 

Notes on the Nesting Habits of Bembex nubilipennis. The Ohio Naturalist, 

vol. 10, No. 7, May, 1910. 
Patron, W. H. 

List of a Collection of Aculeate Hymenoptera Made by Mr. S. W. Williston in 
Northwestern Kansas. Bull. U. 8. Geol. Surv., vol. 5, 1879. 

The American Bembicidae. Bull. U. 8. Geol. Surv., vol. 5, 1880. 

Notes Upon Wasps. Proc. Ent. Soc. Wash., vol. 3, 1893, p. 45. 

PreckHAM, GEORGE W. and ELIZABETH G. 
Wasps, Social and Solitary. Houghton, Mifflin and Co., 1905, p. 119. 
PROVANCHER, L’ ABBE L. 

Additions et Corrections au Volume 2 de la Faune Entomologique Canada 

Traitant des Hymenopteres. 1889, p. 416. 
RouweRr, 8. A. 

The Bembicid Wasps of Boulder Coulty, Colorado, University of Colorado 
Studies, vol. 6, No. 3, p. 243. 

Descriptions of New Species of Wasps in the collections of the United States 
National Museum, Proc. U. 8. National Museum, vol. 41, p. 466. 

Say, THOMAS. 
Narrative of an Expedition to the Source of St. Peter’s River by Keating, II. 
Appendix, Zoology. Philadelphia, 1824. 
SmitH, Frep. 
Catalogue of Hymenoptera in British Museum, vol. 4, p. 335. 
WESENBERG-Lunp, C. 

Bembex rostrata, dens Liv og Instinkter. Entom. Medd., ser. 1, vol. 3, 1892, 

pp. 19-4. 


Fies. 1-4.—WINGS OF 1, STENIOLIA DUPLICATA; 2, STICTIA CAROLINA; 3, STICTIELLA VILLOSA; 4, BICYRTES VEN- 
TRALIS; 5, BEMBIX SIMILANS; 6, MICROBEMBEX MONODONTA. 


144 


ae 


Fics. 7-44.— EIGHTH STERNITE OF 7, STENIOLIA NIGRIPES, VENTRAL VIEW; 8, S. DUPLICATA, VENTRAL VIEW; 
9, S. ALBICANTIA, VENTRAL VIEW: 10, S. OBLIQUA, VENTRAL VIEW; 11, 8. TIBIALIS, VENTRAL VIEW; 12, S. 
NIGRIPES, LATERAL VIEW; 13, S. DUPLICATA, LATERAL VIEW; 14, S. ALBICANTIA, LATERAL VIEW; 15, 8S. OBLIQUA, 
LATERAL VIEW; 16, S. TIBIALIS, LATERAL VIEW; GENITAL STIPITES OF 17-19, STENIOLIA NIGRIPES; 20-22, 
S. DUPLICATA; "23-25, 8. ALBICANTIA; 26-28, S. OBLIQUA; 29-30, S. TIBLALIS; ‘TIBIA AND METATARSUS OF 31, 
STENIOLIA OBLIQUA, "MALE; 32, S. TIBIALIS, MALE; 33, &. TIBIALIS, FEMALE; 34, SEVENTH TERGITE, STICTIA 
SIGNATA, MALE; 35, ‘LATERAL SPINE, SEVENTH TERGITE, ’8. SIGNATA, MALE; 36, SEVENTH TERGITE, S.CAROLINA, 
MALE; 37, LATERAL SPINE, SEVENTH TERGITE, S. CAROLINA, MALE; GENITAL STIPITES, 38-39, S. SIGNATA; 
40-41, S. CAROLINA; 42, MIDDLE FEMORA, S. CAROLINA, MALE; ANTENNA, 43, S. SIGNATA, MALE; 44, S. CARO- 


LINA, MALE. 
65008°—Proc.N.M.vol.52—17 10 145 


6 


Fics. 45-85.—GENITAL STIPITES OF 45-46, STICTIELLA PICTIFRONS; 47-48, S. FORMOSA; 49-50, S. MELANOSTERNA} 
51-52, S. SERRATA; 53, S. PLANA; 54-55, S. TUBERCULATA; 56, S. CALLISTA; 57-58, S. BITUBERCULATA; 59-60, 
S. EMARGINATA; 61-62, S. PULCHELLA; 63-64, S. SPECIOSA; 65-66, S. MELAMPOUS; 67-68, S. VILLOSA; 69-70, 
S. TENUICORNIS; 71-72,8.MEGACERA; 73-74, S. EXIGUA; 75,8. PULLA; 76-77, S. FEMORATA; 78-79, S. DIVERGENS; 
80, APICAL SEGMENTS, ANTENNA OF S. PICTIFRONS, MALE; 81, ANTENNA OF S. FORMOSA, MALE; 82, S. MELAN- 
OSTERNA, MALE; 83, S. SERRATA, MALE; 84, S. PLANA, MALE; 85, S. CALLISTA, MALE. 


146 


aoe tr 


Fias, 86-110.—ANTENNA OF 86, STICTIELLA BITUBERCULATA, MALE; 87, S, EMARGINATA, MALE; 88, S, PUL- 
CHELLA, MALE; 89, S. SPECIOSA, MALE; 90, S. TENUICORNIS, MALE; 91, S, MERGACERA, MALE, BASAL PART; 
92, S. EXIGUA, MALE; 93, S. PULLA, MALE; 94, S. FEMORATA, MALE; 95 S. DIVERGENS, MALE; 96, MIDDLE 
TIBIA AND METATARSUS OF S. PICTIFRONS, MALE; 97, S. FORMOSA, MALE; 98, LAST SEGMENT, LEFT ANTERIOR 
TARSUS OF S. FORMOSA, MALE; 99, MIDDLE TIBIA AND METATARSUS OF S. MELANOSTERNA, MALE; 100, 8. 
SERRATA, MALE; 101, S. TUBERCULATA, MALE; 102, LAST SEGMENT RIGHT ANTERIOR TARSUS OF S. TUBER- 
CULATA, MALE; 103, MIDDLE TIBIA AND METATARSUS OF S. CALLISTA, MALE; 104, S. BITUBERCULATA, MALE; 
105, S. EMARGINATA, MALE; 106, S. PULCHELLA, MALE; 107, S. SPECIOSA, MALE; 108, S. MELAMPOUS, MALE; 
109, MIDDLE TIBIA OF S. FEMORATA, MALE; 110, S. DIVERGENS, MALE. 147 


SILA Z 


Zt 


——_ 


136 ik 

Figs. 111-138.—GENITAL STIPITES OF 111-112, BICYRTES FODIENS; 113-114, B. VENTRALIS; 115-116, B. PARATA; 
117-118, B. 4-FASCIATA; 119-120, B. VARIEGATA; 121-122, B. ANNULATA; 123, B. GRACILIS; 124-125, B. vipu- 
ATA; 126-127, B. INSIDIATRIX; 128-129, B. CAPNOPTERA; 130-131, B. MESILLENSIS; 132, MIDDLE FEMUR OF 


B. VENTRALIS, MALE; 133, B. CAPNOPTERA, MALE; 134, POSTERIOR COXAE OF B. FODIENS, FEMALE; 135, 


ULTIMATE TERGITE OF B. FODIENS, FEMALE; 136, B. BURMEISTERI, FEMALE; 137, B. ANNULATA, FEMALE; 
138, B. CAPNOPTERA, FEMALE. 


148 


Fias. 139-184.—GENITAL STIPITES OF 139-140, BEMBIX ARCUATA; 141, B. U-SCRIPTA; 142-143, B. CINEREA; 144-145 
B. HINEI; 146-147, B. NUBILIPENNIS; 148-149, B. AMOENA; 150-151, B. SAYI; 152-153, B. BELFRAGEI; 154, 
B. STENEBDOMA; 155-156, B. roxi; 157-158, B. SPINOLAE; 159-160, B. SPINOLAE, SHOWING VARIATION; 161- 
162, B. CAMERONI; 163-164, B. COMATA; 165, B. COMATA, SHOWING VARIATION; 166-167, B. PRIMAAESTATE; 
168, B. PRIMAARSTATE, SHOWING VARIATION; 169-170, B. SIMILANS; 171-172, B. PRUINOSA; 173-174, B. BEUTEN- 
MULLERI; 175-176, B. OCCIDENTALIS; 177-178, B. TROGLODYTES; 179-180, B. MELANASPIS; 181-182, B. TEXANA, 


188-184, B, HELIANTHOPOLIS, 
149 


185 


193 


186 


194 


195. 


198 


205 


Fias. 185-211.—ANTENNA OF 185, BEMBIX ARCUATA, MALE; 186, B. CINEREA, MALE; 187, B. HINEI, MALE; 188, 
B. NUBILIPENNIS, MALE; 189, B. AMOENA, MALE; 190, B. SAYI, MALE; 191, B. BELFRAGEI, MALE; 192, B. 
STENEBDOMA, MALE; 193, B. FOXI, MALE; 194, B. SPINOLAE, MALE; 195, B. CAMERONI, MALE; 196, B. CO-_ 
MATA, MALE; 197, B. PRIMAAESTATE, MALE; 198, B. SIMILANS, MALE; 199, B. PRUINOSA, MALE; 200, B. 
BEUTENMULLERI, MALE; 201, B. OCCIDENTALIS, MALE; 202, B. TROGLODYTES, MALE; 203, B. MELANASPIS, 
MALE; 204, B. TEXANA, MALE; 205, B. HELIANTHOPOLIS, MALE; 206, CLYPEUS AND LABRUM OF B, ARCUATA, 
LATERAL VIEW; MIDDLE TIBIA AND METATARSUS OF 207, B. ARCUATA, MALE; 208, B. U-ScRIPTA, MALE; 
209, MIDDLE TIBIA AND TARSUS OF B, HINEI, MALE; MIDDLE METATARSUS AND TIBIAL SPUR OF 210, B. 
AMOENA, 211, B. SAYI. 


150 


227 


Fias. 212-230.—CLYPEUS AND LABRUM OF 212, BEMBIX BELFRAGEI, LATERAL VIEW; 213, SIXTH TERGITE OF B. 
BELFRAGEI, FEMALE; 214, MIDDLE TIBIA AND METATARSUS OF B. STENEBDOMA, MALE; 215, VENTRAL VIEW, 
STERNITES 6-8 OF B. STENEBDOMA, MALE; 216, SIXTH TERGITE OF B. RUGOSA, FEMALE; 217, CLYPEUS AND 
LABRUM OF B. RUGOSA; PROCESS ON SECOND STERNITE OF 218, MICROBEMBEX AURATA, MALE; 219, M. MONO- 
DONTA, MALE; 220,M. HIRSUTA, MALE; GENITAL STIPITES OF 221-222, M. AURATA; 223-224, M. HIRSUTA; 225-226, 
M. MONODONTA (OHIO); 227-228, M. MONODONTA (FLORIDA); 229-230, M. MONODONTA (WASHINGTON). 


151 


INDEX. 


aberantes, B. Bembeces......... 117 
acknowledgments...............- 2 
albicantia, Steniolia............. 12 
SO) 88 
BMPR es owe sags or 88 
0 A ere ee eee 3 
aumulata, Bicyrtes.............-. 67 
muemers, BEMOIS. 2. 2 25... tse 81 
argentifrons, Bembex..-....----.- 119 
belfragei, Bembex.............-.-- 92 
1 LTT SRR i 92,131 

MN ela Shira a 3 gk Wb a's bi te 75 
0 a a a ae 4 1 
REEMNN I Shae. acs ear ruraa ie 56 
Peminx. ....-.'. RESO Gee Fe ee ee 75 
generic description of. ..- 75 

key to species of. .....-. 78 

PTI 2 a ss cio bi tian d 88 

OEE SOS a ry as 81 
beliracet. 256-2. sundaes i. 92 
beutenmulleri...........- 105 
mI 2 eee wh 99 
‘Cs eR ae eae PR 84 

OE ee Pa DEE 100 
BONDOC 263.8 os etal e is ud 115 

Brees Pee ee ots 96 
helianthopolis. .........- 113 

BAe os... ubstacd suc 86 
OUP: ea 116 
MelANASDIA. a. 2\y yoxe od 2k 109 
nubilipennis............- 87 
occidentalis. .....5.5>.... 106 
primaaestate............- 101 
PPUINOGA: 2k ay bwatg tia 104 

1 RE a ee Te 95 

oy | eae ee ee a TT 90 
LL a ea ane ens 103 
is oe ce a da SE 98 
stenebdoma...........-.- 94 

co eee 111 
La 108 
M-Tech pis wetr~ni2 83 
BYNES as loyaias tui tg Bip Kavdlaehe 4 75 
beutenmulleri, Bembex........ 105 
POC.) + 0.5 + cies 105 

Co ENOL A Sits Ee 56, 134 
generic description of. . . 56 

key to species of. ....... 59 


Page 

Bicyrtes annulate.) 052027 0 67 
burmeisteri.............. 62 
capnopteras: 22.2): 2227.4 72 

fodiens. <2. . <2 AE eS 60 

gracilis, jis i/7 ae ae 68 
insidiatriz.. 2.202205 2 71 
mesillensis.............. 73 

PATOL oie SSS ES 64 
quadrifasciata........... 65 


‘ventralis... 2:0/voigeA 62 
Viduate... 2 69 


biolory 4. ocho. aay Re 123 
burmeisteri, Bembidula........... 62 
Biayrtea.! 5 Ue 62 

callista, Stictiella.:. 29: 22.224 S22 34 
cameroni, Bembix..............- 99 
Bembyx..«.+...,Peo7s. 99 
capnoptera, Bembidula........... 72 
Bicyrtes. 422328225, 4 72 

estolina, Bembex.! 72/02 702552 20 
Monedula: .-Ya72293. hh 20 
Shietiawe eet e 2 ae. 20 

ciliata, Bembex:....27Y1 2602.3 119, 132 
cinerea, Bembex........-..----- 84 
Bembix.< 226 62s. e884 84 

comata, Bembix... UFO ot 100 
conniexa, Bembix: .....<46./J/SU81 115 
connexus, Bembex.............. 115 
cressonis, Bembex...............- 92 
denverensis, Monedula............ 25 
discisa, Monedula..............- 56 
divergens, Stictiella.............. 55 
duplicata, Steniolia............... 10 
edwardii, Steniolia............... 10 
emarginata, Monedula.........-..- 38 
Stictiollax Mss... «25 < 38 

exigua, Monedula. .......-.-.-..- 50 
Stictiolla.....s.. Ase. 50 
tasciata, Bembex. .........-.---- 98 
femorata, Monedula...........-- 53 
Sticticlig. fs 12 es 53 

fodiens, Bembidula............-.- 60 
BAC yr be 5:40 nine SIE 60 
formosa, Monedula...........--- 27 
Stictiéila......6 J/7se22 27 

foxf.’ Bambix 2... 6.00 saa. 96 
genera, key to...........'.f20s0gUs 5 
gracilis, Bicyrtes.......0.62s 2.011% 68 


154 PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. vou. 52 
Page. Page. 
helianthopolis, Bembix......-..-- 113 | primaaestate, Bembix...-......... 101 
RUeATACATA es Con ho 2 2 | pruinosa, Bembex, 2.050) /52. ee 104 
HUEY, PeetAL, fea c\< 3) '- ee hee le 86 BeMIX, ~ <x 0 aeons 104 
inermis, Monedula.....-......-.-- 25 | pulchella, Monedula.............- 40 
insidiatrix, Bembidula............ 71 Siichellas.. 5s eee 40 
Bicyries.. .\ aden 3 44) pulta, Monedula..: 2°: Ete.) Oke 52 
insignis, Bembex...........------ 92 | quadrifasciata, Bembidula.....--. 65 
latifrons, Bembix, -- «- .)<e}66 462 <" - 116 Bieyriess ee 65, 134 
longirostra, Bembex . . - - . 24) 545 - D | soutrata) Dembexis 0.140 eee 124 
mamillata, Monedula....----.--- 38 | rugosa, Bembix......:........022- 95 
megacera, Stictiella..........-.--- 49°) \gaiter, Monedtla: s10c:. 223. hse 65 
melampous, Stictiella.........-..- 43 || saya, Bomber so)... 9 ae 90 
melanaspis, Bembix........------ 109 Bemba) thf: 2S ee 90 
melanosterna, Stictiella.........- 30 | scitula, Monedula................- 46 
meliloti, Bembidula. --. -:))22-.%.- 64 Stictiella-29 5: 9A 46 
mesillensis, Bembidula..-.-.------- 73 | scolopacea, Steniolia.. 22.0022... 10 
IBICy Ties. as ae ys 73.| serrata, Monedula.......-...--.-..- 31 
Maarobemivex 2). 6.2 0otidetswetl s Liss 117 pbietiella cia 31 
generic description of..... 117 | servillii, Bicyrtes................ 62 
key to species of-....---.. 119 | signata, Monedula.............-.- 18 
arate ee. Vc able Ee} 121 pidetiay Pee EL Re NEeD 18 
horse 2. oce cece a 122.| similans, Bembem'§. 222201.) Ve 103 
Monodonta, 22. \i4syalt 119 Bembixe + 2322.0 eee 103 
minutula, Monedula........-.-.-.- 40 | singularis, Monedula. ............ 2 
Monedula (Hasselquist)......--.-.- 2: spinolae, ‘Bembex.: 4.0.2 2222" 98 
(Gatreilie). 2 sy scua dingy 2 Bembaxe 2.) )o 127 
monodonta, Microbembex.......- 134 DTOOGSMe.ck es dase ee 130 
ability to find nest..........- 137 COCOOM: «2 ecu et iiss nae 130 
breeding expriments with.... 139 feeding of larva: ...+ 2.222222 128 
COCCOT ht an as se Ae 140 habits of males... 22/2 AAe 127 
contests at mosis... 2-22 stad: 136 APValin de bcce Vees eka 2 ee eee 128 
POpUladen ).'2. 22... seer e 135 mode of carrying prey-......-.- 129 
Piva ee eels were e 136 nesting habite:....4.222:.2%% 127 
(Ih os] at RL ea ey ON Py es 135 GVIPOSIUMONs +. Lose: La 125 
Meshing site... chance hs se ey ae power to paralyze....-...-..-- 125 
evaposiuon. 060022, wha beauh 136 | stenebdoma, Bembix.............. 94 
13.42 ERE Ee amen: |S E eT Pang 137)}, Stemiolia .o.44 seeders ee 5 
nigrifrons, Monedula. .....------- 119 generic description of.......-- 5 
nigripes, Steniolia................ 8 key to species of: .. 2022... 8 
nubilipennis, Bembex..........-- 87 Albicamtlas Ah donk 2 12 
Bembixeiiaseise.... 87 duplicatacn: ¢.ee ces... 200 10 
obliqua, Steniolia............5-..4 12 MISTIPOS 2.01 aw eee vet 2 US 8 
obsoleta, Bembex................. 105 ObliGitawsoo else ak: 12 
BOM VK onion en's Meee 105 muliureay. <i cle deh Ue 9 
occidentalis, Bembex........... 106 RIDIAMAS ee eek tee 14 
Bembix. taut LOG | Stretras i354 Seek t Ue 15 
parata, Bembidila.. 2. aieJvesiee | 64 generic description of.......-- 16 
BICVPGG |. «)s' o's «4 eens 64 key to species of. ....-.--.... 18 
Monedulst .o).,../<'se td sadleable 64 Carolina. 5) 2/5 ¢ SO A 20 
pictifrons, Monedula. ..... didi hse 25 BIGDAIA 5 i525 ~- MUU ly 18 
Sticitella. .. ...64 seein Aid| Stivbiellgis 225 2k222255hedgheeerd 21 
pa, Monedita yoo. oc hk oe 32 generic description of . ....._- 21 
Siictipllg. cook tye oe key to species of ........------ 23 
primaaestate, Bembex...........- 101 hituberculate 2 ciwi ee 36 


no. 2173. A REVISION OF THE BEMBICINE WASPS—PARKER. 155 


MEN ho. sw osc ce fe 
a ar ee 


TeiieOOh soo. <2 53.5 -'. 


plana. 


Retr b os cuivcie s coc 0 oes o's 

Sa AEE aa aR 
PEMINCOPOIS.. S.200555.50. 
RUnpercniaiae sc. i. 2.2 s2 

RNER eae ea ve ss swe 

sulfurea, Steniolia............... 
tenuicornis, Monedula............. 
Gimehiella. 555. .26555 

Smet TIGR. oc. se ies eo 


Page. 

tibialis, Steniolia.................. 14 
troglodytes, Bembex.............. 108 
Bera bss son sence 108 
tuberculata, Monedula............ 34 
Stictiellay: -...<.senes 34 

U-scripta, Bembex........-...... 83 
Bombix. ...i.k0ssnnese 83 

Usitate, Monedala.:. <2. svaees 32 
variegata, Bembidula............. 65 
venation of wings................-. 4 
ventralis, Bembidula.............. 62 
Bicytied. <.'5.5ssennes 62, 132 

[iV gg Wena pirat ae N  ) A: 133 
TS. <5. scccims eda apawaneeee 132 
OVIPOMUON, 5.5 andy oaeee 132 
DIOR. sos sno eaaeckieeeeee 132 
provisioning of nest. .......-. 132 
WOBDRG [55250650 sclgmaeeaueneb eke 15 
vespiformis, Bembex...........-. 18 
viduata, Bembidula............... 69 
Bieyrteds 20s. seaewas 69 

Villosa; Monedula 250.35 .<sa2se0 45 
Shichiclis. sides doccaedsn03 45 


AUTOBIOGRAPHY 


I, John Bernard Parker, was born near Danville, Ohio, September 24, 
1870. My early education was obtained in a rural school. From 1886 to 
1888 I attended a normal school at Danville, Ohio, and from 1888 to 1894 I 
taught in the rural schools in that vicinity, at the same time keeping up my 
studies in preparation for college. In 1894 I entered the College of Arts, 
Philosophy and Science of the Ohio State University, and in 1898 received 
the degree of Bachelor of Arts. From 1898 to 1900 I was Fellow and Assist- 
ant in the Department of English at the Ohio State University, and in June, 
1900, I received the degree of Master of Arts. From 1900 to 1906 I was a 
teacher in the South High School of Cleveland, Ohio; from 1906 to 1908, a 
graduate student at Ohio State University ; 1908 to 1910, Assistant Entomol- 
ogist, Kansas State Agricultural College, Manhattan Kansas ; and since 1910 
I have been in charge of the Department of Biology, Catholic University of 
America, Washington, D. C. 


SUT TTA 
writ 3 0112 061 


| 112 061441785 


